New affordable housing could be built in Leatherhead if the council approves plans for 239 new flats.

The disused offices, in the old Leatherhead Food Research Facility in Randalls way, would be transformed into 55 affordable homes and a further 184 apartments.

The “high-quality and attractive homes” would help re-address the balance of affordable housing in Mole Valley, according to developers Titan Property Developments.

These flats, a mix of studio, one, two and three-bedroom properties, could house 1000 people.

Local doctor surgery, The Ashlea Medical Practice, expressed “huge concern” in the initial consultation that they could not cope with a huge influx of residents in the area.

Lucy Shabrokh, practice manager, wrote: “Audit shows the trend of an increasing number of patients on our register each month, with an average increase of 41 patients per month. This upward trend is not sustainable solely within the constraints of our existing premises.”

She added that the lease for Linden House Surgery in Leatherhead will be up for renewal in just five years’ time and there is no assurance of its renewal from the landlord.

“Consequently, any future development such as the aforementioned application, should include Primary Health Care provision for the expanding community to ensure access to Primary Health Care for all residents,” she wrote.

Titan Property Developments subsequently pledged £1.8million in contribution to local services, including healthcare, and £85k of extra funding for youth leisure facilities.

Leatherhead Residents Association said it accepted “in principle” the change of use to residential as there are many vacant offices, but described the density as “excessive” and “much more suited to large towns such as Woking and Croydon”.

Fran Smith, from Leatherhead Residents Association, wrote: “The one way this development would help the local population is in the affordable housing provision.”

In the planning statement, the affordable housing provision was 20 per cent, currently with 55 affordable flats out of 239 it is 30 per cent; Mole Valley Council’s requirement is 40 per cent.

If a developer cannot meet the affordable housing requirements, they can often make a contribution to the council for affordable housing to be built elsewhere.

John Reynolds, co-founder of Titan Property Developments, said: “From speaking to members of the community during our public consultation, we know that local people need housing at more affordable prices, particularly the younger generation.

“Mole Valley is one of the least affordable places to live in the UK, and it’s felt that buying starter homes is just unrealistic for so many.

“If approved, the delivery of 55 affordable homes and 184 private apartments would be a major step forward in helping to address this issue for Leatherhead.

“Titan is committed to contributing a significant amount towards community funding to improve local services, something which will help the whole town and its existing residents.

“Our site, currently sitting unused, could be made into high-quality and attractive homes that people really need. We’re hoping for a positive outcome at planning committee so this opportunity can be realised, and homes for local people can be built.”