Transformation of 'inaccessible' farmland into 'stunning' nature reserve nears completion

SCHEME PART OF WEYSIDE URBAN VILLAGE

- By JOSEPH BICKLE

WORK to transform a section of previously “inaccessible” farmland into a “stunning” nature reserve as part of a project that will see 1,650 homes built in an area of Guildford is nearing completion, say Guildford Borough Council (GBC).

Land to the north of the Slyfield Industrial Estate, known as Burpham Court Farm, is being turned into a nature reserve the “size of 32 football pitches”.

Work began on the land in March, with GBC telling the public last week that this is on track for completion in early 2026.

The nature reserve is being created as part of the Weyside Urban Village Project, which is set to see 1,650 homes built on land near Slyfield and Bellfields.

GBC sees the completion of the nature reserve as both a key milestone in the major housing project and something that will “significantly improve biodiversity” in the north Guildford area.

In an update provided to the public, GBC shared that the footpaths and shallow drainage basins have finished construction, with the majority of heavy-machinery being removed from the site.

From now until the planned early 2026 completion of the project, work will focus on planting and finishing the nearly one kilometre of raised boardwalks.