THE REGENERATION of Merstham has taken a huge step forward with the submission of two planning applications.
Proposals to develop both the Triangle Site on Portland Drive and the old Iron Horse site have been submitted to Reigate and Banstead Borough Council. If all goes to plan work could begin later this year.
It is hoped the new facilities – a food store, four shops and ten flats on the Iron Horse site and a new community hub and four restaurant units on the Triangle – could open by the end of next year.
Reigate and Banstead's planning chief Councilllor Natalie Bramhall said: "I hope Merstham residents are as pleased as I am that we've reached this important stage in what has been a very complex project.
"It marks a significant step forward in our promise to provide new shops, better housing and more accessible facilities to improve the area for local people. I await the outcome of the applications with great interest."
The plans are part of a multi-million pound scheme to redevelop Merstham, which is being carried out by the borough council, Raven Housing Trust and Surrey County Council.
If the plans are approved – which could happen in early summer - developers will be invited to tender to build the schemes.
Surrey County Council cabinet member for business services, Denise Le Gal, said: "Making Surrey a better place to live and work is what we're all about, and this joint project promises to deliver real benefits for the Merstham community by promoting economic growth, helping families thrive and creating opportunities for young people."
The redevelopment of Merstham – which was cited as one of the most deprived areas of the borough – will also include the destruction of the parade of flats and shops on Portland Drive.
That will be the final stage of the project, which will begin once the new shops on the Iron Horse and Triangle sites are up and running. Residents in the Portland Drive flats will be rehomed.
The flats on the Iron Horse will be shared equity and run by Raven Housing Trust. The community facility on the Triangle will include a library, youth skills centre, training rooms, café and IT facilities.
To view the plans visit www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk or the Town Hall in Reigate.
