Audley Group has announced that, following extensive consultation with the local community and key stakeholders, it has submitted a detailed planning and listed building application for a new integrated retirement community at the historic Headley Court site near Leatherhead in Surrey.  

If approved, the proposals will safeguard the future of the Grade II-listed historic mansion house and restore the extensive landscaped grounds, which will be made available for the local community to enjoy for the first time in its history.

There is a real need for more high-quality retirement accommodation with care and wellbeing facilities on site, to both free up the housing market and ease pressure on the NHS and social care systems

The proposal will include 112 apartments providing much-needed specialist care accommodation for the Mole Valley District.   

They also feature significant measures to promote sustainability including:  

• Substantial enhancements to local biodiversity within the site, with habitat improvements well in excess of policy requirements 
• A commitment to significantly reduce energy use through building fabric improvements and minimising water usage  
• Aiming to achieve a 4* rating for quality and sustainability under the Home Quality Mark (HQM) certification scheme operated by Building Research Establishment (BRE) 

Matthew Nicholson, planning director at Audley Group, said, “It’s been a privilege to have the opportunity to get to know this historic site and we have worked closely with local community groups.

“The plans we have submitted will lead to a stunning and sympathetic conversion that adds significantly to the area.”  

He added: “There is a real need for more high-quality retirement accommodation with care and wellbeing facilities on site, to both free up the housing market and ease pressure on the NHS and social care systems.

“The added bonus with this site is the ability that we have to give such a historic property a new lease of life.”