Burpham Court Farm set for major transformation into a nature reserve


Guildford residents and visitors will soon be able to enjoy a new country park. Burpham Court Farm is a large area of green space along the River Wey. It is set to be transformed into a thriving wildlife haven. Work is scheduled to begin this month, following the selection of a contractor.Previously this land was designated as agricultural land and inaccessible to the public. It will be converted into a nature reserve, offering new recreation opportunities. The site, with the River Wey running through it, will become a scenic and ecologically rich green space. Key features of the new nature reserve include:


  • a 3.6-kilometre circular walking trail
  • a network of pathways and informal footpaths
  • four new pedestrian entrances for improved access
  • a free car park for visitors
  • wildflower meadows, restored wetlands, and extra tree planting
  • expanded reedbed habitat and hedgerow restoration
  • new picnic areas, seating, and signage


The transformation is being funded by Guildford Borough Council, as part of the Weyside Urban Village regeneration project.


Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace


Essential to development at Weyside is the creation of Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace, often called SANG. The new SANG at Burpham Court Farm will help to:


  • protect the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area 
  • support local wildlife
  • provide recreational space for residents and visitors to enjoy


Lead Councillor for Regeneration and Economic Development, Cllr Tom Hunt, commented:


"A key focus of the Weyside Urban Regeneration Scheme is the creation of new green spaces. These spaces have been designed to enhance biodiversity and provide accessible outdoor areas for the community.

"Equal in size to around 60 football pitches, Burpham Court Farm Nature Reserve will offer a stunning landscape, rich in wildlife, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, walkers, and families.


"Located within walking distance of the Weyside regeneration area, this new green space will serve as a valuable community resource for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment."

Community Drop in - 28 May 2026

May 21, 2026
Join us for our second community drop-in of 2026

Community Drop In - 24 February 2026

February 20, 2026
community drop-in on Tuesday 24 February 2026 at St Peter’s Shared Church, Guildford, from 4pm to 7pm. Latest regeneration updates.

Work begins to transform two major junctions on the A320 Woking Road

February 20, 2026
Work begins to transform two major junctions on A320 Woking Road Work to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion and enhance safety at the Woodlands Road and Moorfield Road junctions on Woking Road will begin on Wednesday 25 February 2026. These highways improvements are part of the wider Weyside Urban Village regeneration programme. Both junctions are being upgraded at the same time so the new traffic signals can operate together. This approach will help reduce exit blocking, ease congestion and improve journey reliability along this section of Woking Road. Woodlands Road junction improvements At the Woodlands Road junction on Woking Road, the existing roundabout will be replaced with a signal-controlled four-way junction. Co-ordinating this with the nearby Moorfield Road junction will help manage traffic more effectively and reduce delays, especially at busy times. Moorfield Road junction improvements At the Moorfield Road junction on Woking Road, a series of upgrades will increase capacity and improve traffic flow. A new northbound lane towards Woking will be added and the existing northbound lane will be converted to another southbound lane. Providing two southbound lanes approaching the junction will help to reduce congestion and make it easier for drivers to turn into the Slyfield Industrial Estate. A new signal-controlled pedestrian crossing will also be installed, alongside upgraded footways to improve safety and provide better connections with existing walking and cycling routes. Traffic management measures The scheme will be delivered in phases, starting with the removal of the Woodlands Road roundabout. This work will take place at night from Tuesday 2 March for around six weeks. A lane closure will be in place overnight for safety and lifted each morning to minimise disruption to daytime traffic. Councillor Vanessa King, Lead Councillor for Economy and Place said: “These improvements are another vital step in preparing the local road network for the Weyside Urban Village regeneration scheme. The new layouts will future‑proof the network for new homes and community facilities, while also helping to manage current traffic more effectively. Being committed to becoming a more environmentally responsible borough, we’re also placing strong emphasis on creating safer, more accessible routes for pedestrians and cyclists. “The Slyfield Industrial Estate is a major economic and commercial hub for Guildford, so improving access is essential for supporting local businesses. By delivering the works in carefully planned phases and managing traffic thoughtfully, we can keep the programme running safely while minimising disruption for residents, businesses and commuters.  “This project is ultimately about preparing the area for the exciting transformation ahead and ensuring that the right access is in place as new homes, infrastructure and facilities come forward.”