Wealthy homeowners in an exclusive Surrey enclave, dubbed 'The Millionaires' Village', are facing a nightmare scenario as their multi-million pound properties could be devalued overnight. The source of their fury? A secretive council land sale they fear is paving the way for an illegal travellers' site right on their doorstep.
The controversy centres on a patch of greenbelt land in the sought-after village of Longcross, near Chertsey. Residents were blindsided to discover that Runnymede Borough Council had sold the plot without any public consultation or transparency.
A Community Left in the Dark
Local fears erupted when caravans were recently spotted on the newly sold land, immediately raising the alarm. The council's response has done little to quell the anxiety, with officials accused of a complete lack of communication and dismissive attitudes towards concerned residents.
One homeowner, who invested his life savings into his property, voiced the community's despair: "We're utterly powerless. The council sold this land with no warning. If a travellers' site is established, our property values could collapse, and we stand to lose everything we've worked for."
Council's Vague Assurances Fail to Pacify
Despite mounting pressure, Runnymede Borough Council has remained evasive. Their statements have offered vague promises that the land is sold for "storage purposes only" and that any unlawful use would be dealt with. However, they have conspicuously failed to provide any concrete guarantees or detailed planning restrictions to prevent a change of use.
This has led to accusations of a cover-up and a dereliction of duty, with locals questioning why the sale was handled with such secrecy if the intentions were entirely above board.
The Stakes: Multi-Million Pound Dreams at Risk
Longcross is no ordinary village. Nestled within the protected Wentworth Estate and home to a world-renowned golf club, it represents the pinnacle of affluent Surrey living. Properties here regularly command prices between £2-3 million.
The potential establishment of an unauthorised encampment is not just a matter of social friction; it's a direct threat to the financial security of hundreds of families. The scandal highlights a bitter divide between local authorities and the communities they are elected to serve, leaving residents feeling betrayed and fighting to protect their investments and their way of life.
