Police headquarters revamp given go-ahead

Plans to redevelop the Surrey Police headquarters have been granted planning permission.

The force decided in 2021 to remain at Mount Browne on the outskirts of Guildford rather than seek a new location.

The redevelopment plans include new accommodation for students and kennels for dogs, a decked car park with electric vehicle charging points and the restoration of some ancient woodland.

On Wednesday, Guildford Borough Council’s planning committee voted to grant planning permission subject to legal agreement.

One of the applications was for a new access road onto the site, which will reduce traffic for neighbouring residential areas, Surrey Police said.

The second application relates to the redevelopment plans for the site, which will see the force refurbish and rebuild areas of its headquarters that are no longer sustainable or fit for purpose.

Mount Browne has been the headquarters of Surrey Police for more than 70 years.

Surrey Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend welcomed the planning decision, saying it was “a significant milestone for the force”.

The historic Old House will be retained with a new courtyard wing, the force said.

Ms Townsend added: “Mount Browne has been Surrey Police’s home for over 70 years, but the buildings here are run down, expensive to maintain and simply no longer meet the requirements of a modern police force.

“The redevelopment will offer our amazing officers, staff and volunteers a vastly improved working environment that is sustainable for the force, both financially and environmentally.”

Deputy Chief Constable Nev Kemp previously said: “We need fit-for-purpose facilities and technology which support our operational activity, not just now, but for many more years to come.”

A six-week judicial review period will now take place before the force can take decisions on the next steps.

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