Policy information sourced from the Reigate & Banstead Local Plan - Development Management Plan

NHE7: Rural Surrounds of Horley

Proposals for development within the Rural Surrounds of Horley should protect the countryside in accordance with national policy which recognises the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside.

  • Proposals for development within the Rural Surrounds of Horley will be looked on favourably where they:
    • support the essential needs of agriculture, forestry and outdoor sports with development that is an appropriate size, siting and design and materials; or
    • support the social and economic wellbeing of rural communities, including small scale rural businesses.
  • The creation of new dwellings will be permitted where:
    • the proposal meets the requirements of Criteria 1 above;
    • the proposal seeks the replacement of an existing single dwelling with one of an equivalent landscape impact;
    • the requirement for a countryside or rural location of the proposal can be otherwise justified;
    • the proposal will enhance or maintain the characteristics of the immediate rural setting;
    • the scale of the proposal is proportionate to its countryside setting; and
    • the proposal will enhance or maintain the visual and physical distinction between Horley urban area and its rural surroundings.
  • Extensions and replacement of existing buildings and any other ancillary development must maintain and not compromise the character of the countryside and landscape.
  • Proposals that promote innovative and outstanding architectural design will be considered favourably.

For more information please see the Reigate & Banstead Development Management Plan