Horticultural nursery works at Briarwood Nursery, Woking

What was proposed

The application sought retrospective permission for glasshouses, sheds, a polytunnel, water facilities, parking and associated works for wholesale plant growing.

“Retrospective application for erection of 2x glasshouses and 2x sheds for horticultural use, 1x polytunnel,1x pump room, creation of a water storage pond and 3x water tanks, formation of a car parking area and other associated works following demolition of 1x building, 3x glasshouses, 3x sheds and 2x polytunnels. The proposal would be used for the wholesale propagation and plant growing.”

Officer report

What happened previously

Works began before the legal agreement and pre-commencement conditions were completed, enforcement followed, and the current application seeks to regularise development that differed from earlier approved plans.

“The Planning Officer outlined the planning history of the site, including a similar application previously considered by the Committee in September 2025. Members were advised that development had commenced before the associated legal agreement had been completed and before pre-commencement conditions had been discharged. Following enforcement action, works on site had ceased.”

Minutes

Ecology and future proposals

Surrey Wildlife Trust was satisfied that suitable reptile habitat remained and raised no objection, while any garden-centre proposal would need separate consideration.

“[NOTE 1: The Planning Officer advised that a written update had been published which confirmed that, following additional ecological information submitted by the applicant, Surrey Wildlife Trust was satisfied that suitable reptile habitat had been retained on site and advised that no additional planning conditions were required because the necessary monitoring and enhancement measures were already secured through Condition 13 of the recommendation.]”

“Members sought clarification regarding the proposed nursery operation and ecology matters. The Planning Officer confirmed that a response had been received from Surrey Wildlife Trust in advance of the meeting and that no objection had been raised, subject to a condition already included within the recommendation.”

Minutes

Who spoke

A supporter addressed the committee, and no registered objectors spoke.

What members discussed

Members welcomed the return to active horticultural use and employment benefits, while stressing the importance of following planning procedures.

“During the debate, Members welcomed the return of the site to active horticultural use and the associated employment opportunities. Reference was made to the retrospective nature of the application and the importance of compliance with planning procedures. Councillor Guy Cosnahan, as Ward Councillor, expressed support for the proposal, noting the benefits of bringing the land back into productive use and the creation of local jobs.”

Minutes

The committee decision

The committee resolved to grant planning permission subject to conditions.

“That planning permission be GRANTED subject to conditions.”

Minutes