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FAQs about the Westborough and Park Barn Better Homes Programme

What is the Westborough and Park Barn Better Homes Programme?

The programme aims to provide high-quality Council-owned homes and a strong, thriving neighbourhood for residents now and into the future.    

The project will address several issues with our housing in parts of the Westborough and Park Barn area, including: 

  • significant structural problems     
  • poor energy efficiency
  • accessibility challenges
  • some homes that are unsafe and cannot be lived in.

Phase 1 will focus on engaging with the local community and key groups. We want to make sure residents' voices are heard and included as the project develops.     

We'll explore where and how to invest in the area. We'll look at options for upgrading some existing Council-owned homes, redevelopment opportunities, and improvements to public spaces.       

We'll take a phased approach to the project. This will allow us to start work on the most urgent sites, while planning long-term improvements that benefit residents, their homes and the wider community.   

Why is Guildford Borough Council starting this project now?

Tenants in parts of Westborough and Park Barn have told us about ongoing issues with their homes. Some older homes have structural issues, low energy efficiency, and difficult access.     

There are also Council-owned homes in the area that cannot be lived in. This affects our tenants, families waiting for council homes, and our finances.     

By working with the community and investing in improvements, we can make sure local people have access to high-quality affordable homes.       

In the past, we looked at small, individual sites in the area. However, taking a joined-up approach will bring more benefits. It will give local people the opportunity to have a say in the long-term future of their neighbourhood, help us to gather the information we need to make the right improvements, and support us in providing the homes the community needs.  

How will existing residents be affected? 

There are no confirmed plans for property upgrades or redevelopment at this stage. We want to begin a conversation with the community to help us to make the right decisions.  

We're focussed on an area of 600 to 1,000 homes, around 60% of which are Council owned. There are also leasehold properties, and those owned by individuals and families.      

As we develop the programme, we'll work with all residents to make sure everyone is included, and any future improvements benefit the whole community.  

I'm a Council tenant - what does this mean for me and my home?  

There are no confirmed plans for property upgrades or redevelopment at this stage. We want to speak with tenants as part of our community engagement.   

Over the coming months, we'll ask for your ideas, priorities, and any concerns you may have. You can share views in person, online, by phone, or in writing.  Your voice will help shape the future of your area.     

Alongside the Westborough and Park Barn Better Homes programme, we'll continue to ensure your home is safe and well maintained. We actively assess the condition of Council homes so we can plan and prioritise future improvements. You may receive a separate letter about a Stock Condition Survey or planned improvements. This is a routine part of how we manage our housing and will help us maintain the quality and safety of all homes.    

If you have any concerns about your Council owned home, or need to report a repair, visit our housing pages or call us on 01483 505050.  

I'm a homeowner or private tenant - what does this mean for me and my property?  

There are no confirmed plans for property upgrades or redevelopment at this stage. We want to speak with all local residents - that includes homeowners, leaseholders, landlords and private tenants. This will help us to make the right decisions about potential future improvements and where they could be made.     

As we develop the programme, we'll involve the whole community to make sure future improvements benefit everyone.      

Over the coming months, we'll reach out to hear your ideas, priorities, and any concerns you may have. You'll be able to share your views in person, online, by phone, or in writing.  Your voice will help shape the future of your area. 

How will the project be funded?

Our Full Council has approved funding of £275,000 for Phase 1 of the project. This phase will include extensive engagement with local people, the development of a long-term improvement strategy for the area, and an Outline Business Case.     

As the programme develops, we'll assess the costs of the project, and explore funding opportunities including Homes England and other grants.      

The Outline Business Case and any future funding will need to be approved by Full Council before the project proceed further.  

What has been done so far?  

We've completed some early steps including:

  • secured £275,000 of Phase 1 funding, approved by Full Council   
  • invited residents to join a new Resident Engagement Group to ensure the community's voice is central as the project develops.

How will Local Government Reorganisation impact the Westborough and Park Barn Better Homes project?  

The Government has announced that Surrey's 11 district and borough councils and Surrey County Council will be reorganised into two new unitary authorities - West Surrey Council and East Surrey Council.   

These new authorities will replace the existing councils in April 2027. Until then, Guildford Borough Council, along with the other existing councils across Surrey, will continue to provide services as usual.   

Our Full Council has approved funding for Phase 1 of the Westborough and Park Barn Better Homes Programme. This phase will include community engagement, the development of a long-term improvement strategy, and the preparation of an Outline Business Case.    

Responsibility for Housing and Regeneration services, including this project, will move to West Surrey Council in April 2027. This change will give the new authority the chance to shape future progress and build on the work already done.  

How can I find out more and get involved?    

We're starting to engage with the Westborough and Park Barn community to:    

  • update you on the Westborough and Park Barn Better Homes Programme    
  • understand what matters most to residents    
  • explore options like redevelopment, upgrades, and public space improvements    
  • build a long-term plan that reflects local priorities.

Over the coming months, we'll reach out to hear your ideas, priorities, and any concerns you may have. You'll be able to share your views in person, online, by phone, or in writing.   

We're also inviting residents to join a new engagement group that will help guide this programme of work. Your local knowledge and lived experience would be invaluable, and the group will play a key role as the project develops.   

In time, this group may evolve into a formal Resident Steering Group, offering longer term involvement in the programme.  

If you are interested in joining the new resident engagement group, please email us at wpb-betterhomes@guildford.gov.uk or call 01483 505050 by Friday 13 March, 2026.    

If you live in Westborough or Park Barn and would like to speak to us about the project, please email us at wpb-betterhomes@guildford.gov.uk or call 01483 505050.