Centrum Business Park Apartment Plan Triggers Height and Parking Review

The planning application WA/2024/01557 for the Centrum Business Park site in Farnham was submitted in August 2024, following the site's allocation for approximately 150 apartments in the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan adopted in 2020.

This application proposes 162 residences on the allocated land. Residents living near the eastern approach to the town centre would encounter a development whose scale is set out in the submitted plans.

Details of the submitted application

The proposal includes buildings of six storeys. The Farnham Neighbourhood Plan sets a four-storey limit for the site. The application provides 37 parking spaces for the 162 residences and does not include the 30 percent affordable housing requirement referenced by local critics.

These elements are the subject of objections recorded by the Farnham Society. Residents who rely on on-street parking or who seek affordable housing options would see the outcomes of these specific provisions if the application is determined.

Expected effects on the local setting

The development is expected to significantly impact the character of the eastern gateway to the town centre. It would also be visible from Farnham Castle. People using routes into the centre or viewing the castle would notice the change in the built form at this location.

Centrum Housing Finance Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Housing Bank in November 2024. The Centrum Group plans to finalise the sale of its housing finance arm by the end of the fiscal year, with options including a full sale or partial stake sale. These corporate steps sit alongside the Farnham site application but are separate from the local planning decision.

Determination of application WA/2024/01557 will set the next stage for any construction at the site. Residents can follow the process through the local planning authority records.