The Fordbridge neighbourhood borders the town of Ashford, and is overseen by the Spelthorne Council. The tight knit community feeling in Fordbridge has attracted many to the area. Between the Ashford Community Association and the great schools like St. James Senior Boys School - it’s no surprise that families are especially drawn to the locality. This quiet suburban area has enough going on to keep residents happy over the weekends as well. For those who don’t live in one of the many family houses with large gardens, there is the lush Fordbridge Park nearby that gets plenty of use. Aside from this, you’ll find many locals enjoying a couple of rounds at Ashford Manor Golf Club, or a few pints at The District Arms. While the neighbourhood is quite a distance from central London, it remains popular with commuting families who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of the inner city.

The local golf club in Ashford Manor dates back to the 19th century. In 1898, residents in the area would gather on Staines Moor to play golf. After having worked out of a shed for a couple of years, the club moved to its current Ashford Manor location in 1902. They had bought the estate from property developers, preventing the land from being converted into rows of homes. In 1905, the club and surrounding became well known for hosting Harold Horsfall Hilton, one of the greatest British golfers. With the fame that he brought the area, the club was able to expand the facilities, adding smoking and billiard rooms. Later on, in 1924, the club became a member of the Middlesex County Golf Union. Today, it’s still a beloved anchor within the community.

Fordbridge is home to Europe’s largest female prison. HMP Bronzefield, is a progressive women’s prison focused on the inmates’ rehabilitation more than their punishment.

Unfortunately, the neighbourhood is bisected by the A308. With its busy multi-lane structure, it can make the neighbourhood noisy at times, and has also raised concerns regarding local pollution. However, most residents generally enjoy the close proximity. Since the area is filled with people who rely on driving rather than public transit, they find the A308’s location to be extremely convenient.

Spelthorne Council recently purchased the historical Harper House. They paid £2 million for the building, and had plans to convert it into accommodation for homeless families in the neighbourhood. Currently, many of the homeless people of the area are put up in bed and breakfasts, which is not sustainable for the district to continue with. In 2019, the council’s planning application was approved for the demolition of the Harper House emergency accommodation facility and its replacement with a state-of-the-art facility. The new Harper House, which should open in 2022, will be a significant improvement on the old building offering best-in-class emergency housing for up to 20 local families.