Scott Brownrigg Planning has achieved Planning for the new Atkins UK headquarters at Woodcote Grove in Epsom. Epsom & Ewell Council unanimously approved plans for the application which replaces the existing out-dated office accommodation on the site with a landmark ‘BREEAM Excellent’ building comprising 9,924 sq m for up to 1000 staff.

The Woodcote Grove Estate, located on the Chalk Lane Conservation Area, was originally bought by Sir William Atkins in 1957 to accommodate the growing business. By 1962 new offices had been built within the grounds, alongside the Grade II Listed mansion building.

Scott Browning Planning, acting as lead planning advisor, has supported the client in a robust pre-application process which commenced last year and involved engagement with a wide range of stakeholders including officers and members from Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, local interest groups and the local community. This engagement has resulted in a scheme that responds positively to the site’s constraints and has secured support from a number of those consulted.

The approved scheme will result in significant enhancement of the setting of the Grade II Listed mansion that has been detrimentally impacted by the proximity and location of the 1960s office buildings. On completion of the new building, the existing office buildings will be demolished and the mansion lawns will be reinstated. The new building is set back from the mansion and will take the form of a pavilion addressing both the mansion lawns and the entrance drive, enhancing the setting whilst providing a focal point to the arrival at the site.