Thames Water objects to a 400-home plan in Alfold, stating the existing sewer system is already overloaded and needs upgrades.
Thakeham wants to build these houses, but locals worry about sewage overflows. More houses would worsen the problem, they believe. The War Memorial Society supports the project, stating it helps with Waverley’s housing shortage.
Thames Water is speaking out against the project, as residents think it will ruin the village, and overloaded infrastructure is a major worry. The water company responded to the application directly, stating that Alfold’s system cannot handle more development currently.
Upgrades are being designed with the council’s input, but no new homes can be occupied until upgrades are actually completed. Thames Water states surface water capacity must exist, and the sewer system also can’t handle the new development yet.
Thames Water works with the developer of the area, aiming to identify and deliver needed water infrastructure. They want to ensure proper infrastructure is put in place first, stating that the area should be upgraded before people move in.
Hunt said he is glad for Thames Water’s comment and recognizes the serious infrastructure problems around Alfold. He will ask Waverley Council to be firm and negotiate well with Thakeham Homes.
Hunt will support the residents and work with Thames Water on improvements, ensuring planned upgrades are properly finished. More meetings between Thames Water and Hunt will happen.
The planning application is being reviewed, and residents can give feedback to the council. The developers hope to create a new road and will add pedestrian and cycle paths as well. Some land would be for community use, and thirty percent of homes may be affordable.