Surbiton flats to be built in early 2012

Two major developments of new flats in Surbiton are due to start building work in early 2012.  Surbiton Plaza (phase 2) and the redevelopment of the Red Lion site on the Ewell Road are close to being built after years of hold-ups.

We understand that the second phase of Surbiton Plaza is close to being started after CNM Estates, the Surbiton based developer, agrees a deal with a second development partner.  This is expected to be tied up in January 2012, with work starting soon after.  The development will be welcome, as currently it means that several shops are missing from Victoria Road – opposite Sainsbury's.  It is hoped that the new flats close to Victoria Road will help the local shops, cafes, restaurants and bars.

The development of the old Red Lion pub on the Ewell Road is due to start in January 2012.  This is another CNM Estates development that has been hanging around for some time.  There were concerns from local residents that the site was being overdeveloped, but it was eventually given planning permission two years ago.  This site is exactly opposite where the historic wooden bus shelter was recently scrapped by Kingston Council.  The Council receives money from the development of the Red Lion site to be spent on improvements to the local area.  A small part of this money could easily have been spent to repair the rare old bus stop.

Although many of us are concerned about more and more flats being built, it's good that these two developments will finally get completed, after being left empty for so long.