A magnificent development opportunity in the Surrey Hills

The Planning Permission

The property represents an exclusive opportunity to acquire an iconic and unique listed building in Surrey set within 45 acres of potential strategic development land. Planning permission allows for the development of 52 new dwellings spread across the Property. The design of the scheme enables a range of living typologies from large lateral apartments to townhouses and detached houses, ensuring a high-quality product at a range of price points for purchasers. The application was granted a decision notice on 18th February 2025 with implementation required within 3 years.

The Wider Estate

The grounds of St John’s extend to circa 45 acres with the Grade II Listed Roman Catholic former seminary occupying the central southern area of the Estate. To the east of the main building are open fields which lead to a strip of woodland marking the boundary of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The west of the site is characterised by woodland, opening onto a sports pitch with a detached dwelling and open fields beyond. Given the shortage of housing delivery across Waverley Borough Council, currently having a 5-year housing land supply of 1.28 years (Jan 2025), there are portions of the Estate that have potential to offer some longer-term residential development prospects and would be worth promoting through the Local Plan at the appropriate time.

Location

St John’s is situated in the picturesque village of Wonersh, within the borough of Waverley. Wonersh is situated within The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and surrounded by beautiful countryside. Guildford is circa 15 minutes from the property and London circa 40 minutes.