The route of the former Guildford to Cranleigh
railway line has long been established as a recreational route
for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. An engineering feasibility
study completed in 1996 confirmed the engineering possibility
of re-opening the railway line, but a subsequent study of
the business case completed in 1997 concluded that the forecast
patronage and revenue would not provide a large enough return
to cover the capital costs of the project. It was subsequently
decided by the County Council, Railtrack and the Borough Council
not to pursue the proposal.
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However, the research carried out on
re-opening the rail line focused attention, amongst other
things, on the importance of the Downs Link, which is a well-used
recreational resource. The County Council and Waverley and
Guildford Borough Councils have all resolved that the current
and future importance of the route of the former Guildford
to Cranleigh railway be recognised as an important movement
corridor and that it be protected through the statutory planning
process.
POLICY M8 : Guildford - Cranleigh Movement Corridor
The route of the former Guildford to Cranleigh railway
line, shown on the Proposals Map, will be protected from
development in view of its importance as a movement corridor.
