Kingston Council has unveiled its final draft Local Plan, targeting nearly 20,000 new homes over the next 15 years. The plan, set to guide development from 2028 to 2043, includes sites across Chessington, New Malden, and Kingston town centre, with some green belt land allocated for housing.
Key Development Sites
The plan identifies numerous locations for redevelopment. Kingston Station could see 310 homes, while Surbiton Station Car Park (western part) may host 175 homes, and Tolworth Station 105 homes. Cattle Market Car Park and Fairfield Bus Station are proposed for 300 homes, with Seven Kings Car Park and Bentall Centre's multi-storey car park earmarked for 225 and 175 homes respectively.
Cromwell Road Bus Station would be improved and include 90 homes to create a welcoming gateway to Kingston town centre. Shopping centres like Eden Quarter (645 homes) and Eden Walk Shopping Centre (560 homes) are also targeted, alongside the John Lewis site on Wood Street for 285 homes while retaining the main store and Waitrose.
Council Headquarters and Industrial Sites
The Guildhall complex, the council's headquarters, could be redeveloped for 320 homes, preserving the historic building but replacing the modern extension. In New Malden, Cocks Crescent is proposed for regeneration with 255 homes and a new public square. Tolworth Tower, Kingston's tallest building, may be revamped for 360 homes, and St John's Industrial Estate for 585 homes with denser industrial units.
Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land
The plan includes development on Metropolitan Open Land (MOL) and green belt. Redundant areas of Hogsmill Sewage Treatment Works could provide 405 homes, and Motspur Park gasholders (currently MOL) 440 homes. In Chessington, green belt land on Clayton Road is allocated for 1,440 homes, and the derelict former Chessington Golf Course for 265 homes.
A council report stated that green belt boundaries were reviewed because housing needs could not be met solely by building on brownfield sites. The report emphasized that an up-to-date Local Plan would allow the council to manage development proactively, ensuring the right mix of business, commercial space, and housing, supported by timely infrastructure delivery.
Next Steps
Kingston Council will vote on June 22 to publish the final draft for public consultation from July 6 to September 4. The plan would then be submitted to the Planning Inspectorate by December for examination and formal approval, with adoption expected by 2028.
