A long-vacant plot of land at Ash Lodge Park could soon be developed into a 64-bed care home, under new plans to be presented by Muller Property Group at the Ash Parish Council meeting on Wednesday, 15 October 2025.
The meeting, to be held at The Ash Centre, will see Max Muller, representing the developer, give a short presentation before the public is invited to ask questions about the proposal for the land off Hammersley Drive.
Land Originally Reserved for Healthcare Use
The site was originally set aside by Bewley Homes as part of the Section 106 planning agreement for the Ash Lodge Park development. It was earmarked for a healthcare facility, such as a GP surgery or medical centre, but the NHS declined to take it on, leaving the land unused for several years. The plot has remained vacant since the completion of the wider housing estate. Muller Property Group has now acquired the land and intends to redevelop it as a purpose-built residential care home for older people.
Developer’s Proposal
According to Muller’s early outline, the scheme would comprise a three-storey care home with 64 en-suite bedrooms, landscaped gardens, and on-site parking for staff and visitors. The company says the project would help meet a shortage of modern care places within the Ash and Guildford area, while also creating local employment opportunities. The developer has not yet submitted a formal planning application to Guildford Borough Council, but the parish meeting will serve as part of its early consultation process.
Traffic, Design and Planning Questions
Local residents have previously voiced concerns about the change in land use and the potential impact on traffic and parking in the surrounding estate. Hammersley Drive and adjoining roads are relatively narrow, and neighbours fear the extra vehicle movements from staff, visitors and deliveries could add pressure to local streets. Other questions are expected about the height and scale of the proposed building, drainage and flooding risk, and whether the project aligns with the original planning commitments made when Ash Lodge Park was approved. Planning experts may suggest that while a care home falls under the same broad “C2” use class as other institutional facilities, the shift from a public healthcare purpose to a private care provider may draw scrutiny from both the council and residents.
Community Engagement
Ash Parish Council has invited Muller to give its presentation so residents can hear directly from the developer and raise their concerns before any application is submitted.
After the presentation, the floor will be opened to questions from the public. Likely topics may include:
- The project timeline and consultation process.
- Expected staff numbers and parking provision.
- How traffic impacts will be managed.
- What landscaping or screening will be provided.
- How high will the building be
- Drainage and flooding risk
- Whether other community uses were considered for the site.
Following the meeting, Muller is expected to refine its plans and submit a formal planning application later this year or early next.
Public Meeting Details
Date: Wednesday 15 October
Time: 6:30 pm
Venue: The Ash Centre, Ash Hill Road, Ash
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