Government decision allows 28 storey building on HG Wells Centre in Woking

The Government's Planning Inspector has granted permission for the redevelopment of the former HG Wells Centre in Woking town centre.

This overturns the decision of Woking Borough Council's Planning Committee, which previously decided not to give planning permission.

Lib Dem Councillor Ann-Marie Barker, Leader of Woking Borough Council, said:

"The Lib Dems and I am bitterly disappointed with the outcome of the Planning Inspector's decision to uphold the developer's appeal and grant permission for the 28 storey redevelopment of the former HG Wells Conference and Events Centre site in Woking town centre."

"Local residents have made it clear to me that they do not wish to see further high rise development, and this appeal has overturned the decision of democratically elected local councillors on the Council's Planning Committee."

"We must consider whether this decision is legally sound. Officers are currently reviewing the decision to understand what options remain open to the Council, the implications for Woking town centre and the emerging Masterplan."