Fight to save Surbiton Hill Garage on The Avenue

The Surbiton Hill Garage in the Avenue has come under threat for the first time in 5 years, ahead of it's 50th Birthday.

A planning application has been issued by the site owner to demolish the garage and instead build a block of flats and a doctors surgery. 

A similar plan was issued by the landowner, Mr M Daly, 5 years ago, however it was rejected under grounds of loss of local employment. 

This time around the plans include a doctors surgery, in spite of the Surbiton hospital complex being opened next month.

Nearly 500 residents and customers have signed a petition to fight against the plans.  

Surbiton Hill Garage has been in business since 1964 and is one of longest registered MOT testing stations in the UK.

George Matkin, the garage's owner said: "I've never met the landlord, he's based in Dublin, so I don't think he's taken into account the locality of the plans." 

"Many elderly residents in the area come to us to help fill up their cars, along with disabled customers, which is something you don't get at the big self service garages."

"We feel we provide a service to the community, and if we shut down, there'll be a loss of jobs, many of whom may struggle to find work." 

The lease on the land runs out in May.  If planning permission for the flats is granted, it would mean that the lease wouldn't have to be renewed.   

George added: "I will be happy for anyone who wants to come in and sign the petition and if local councillors want to get in contact they are more than welcome."

To view the plans in full, click here.