A series of distinctive character areas have been established across Phase 3 allowing homes to respond appropriately to their individual setting. Clusters of low-density housing allow visual permeability across the site with glimpses and views to the countryside beyond.

An important aspect of the project has been the acknowledgement of the site’s edge of town location and context. As such the natural environment has been promoted throughout with the existing trees and lakes enhanced to ensure homes have strong frontages overlooking blue or green infrastructure, promoting a healthy lifestyle and connection with nature. Alongside accessible open spaces and cycle and footpath networks, green swathes break up the linear nature of the site, connecting the woodland and lakes to the north with the open countryside and linear park to the south.

The project will achieve biodiversity net gain in relation to habitats and hedgerows, with a net gain increase of 10% for habitat space and a 146% increase for hedgerows. A significant net gain in tree numbers and species diversity will add to the age range of trees in the local area, as well as enhancing the tree cover on the site.

Through an analysis of the local Surrey vernacular, the architectural approach aims to replicate Cranleigh’s distinctive elements and materials in a contemporary manner, emulating the traditional form, materials and detailing to reflect ‘Cranleighness’. Dwellings include key features such as traditional roof pitches, gables fronting primary aspects, multiple facing materials, horizontally split materials, chimneys, entrance markers and bays.

The material palette will consist primarily of red bricks, clay tiles and black boarding in keeping with the surrounding communities. To help add more variety to the street scene and create focal points, a lighter coloured brick and additional cladding colours will feature on key homes at the end of vistas.

With Phase 1 of the project nearing completion and Phase 2 recently commencing on site, the wider Knowle Park masterplan will feature a total of 301 new homes delivered across the three phases and a country park.

“We are very proud of everything that has been achieved so far at Knowle Park and are extremely pleased that the final phase has been granted planning permission. This is a very special project that embraces its natural context to deliver new homes that invite and welcome the outdoors, inside!”

– Ian Fenn, Partner at JTP