Compton engagement summary and results

Compton engagement summary and results

Introduction

Following feedback from Compton Parish Council and concern from some residents about speeding in the village, Surrey County Council was asked to consider possible options to reduce traffic speeds and other improvements, especially along The Street and Down Lane.  

Key benefits of the proposals included:

• Reducing traffic speeds 
• Improving access for pedestrians and walkability   
• Improving crossing points   
• Introducing more green spaces and planting   
• Highlighting and celebrating the village's heritage and culture  

Engagement

Feedback was gathered through an online survey, as well as paper surveys. The online survey was open online from 3 February 2025 till 3 March 2025. Paper submissions were accepted for another week. 

In addition, we held two in-person events in Compton Village Hall, where people could see plans of the proposal options, ask questions and watch a fly-through video to show what it could look like.  

The events were attended by over 100 people. Letters were sent to all residents in the village to promote the events and the online survey, and it was promoted on social media.  

A total of 173 responses were received, including respondents who chose to keep their answers private and did not publish them online. The comments were received across 7 different themes, the results of which are outlined below. 

Summary of results 

Theme 1: Down Lane

The proposals included making safety improvements at the entrance of the junction into Wyatts Gallery, to create more space for pedestrians. Parking in this area would be removed to make room for seating, plants and an accessible bus stop. It is proposed that a 20mph speed limit would be introduced on Down Lane.  

Most of the changes were supported, with the exception of removing the parking bays.  

Theme 2: B3000 Roundabout

The proposals included creating a village gateway, alerting drivers that they are entering a village. A 20mph speed limit would begin at the roundabout. The laybys at both bus stops would be removed and safety improvements made at the junction into Down Lane.  

Most changes were supported, although residents would prefer to keep the laybys.  

Theme 3: St Nicholas Church

The proposals included replacing the layby with a wider pavement. This would create space for a pedestrian crossing, making it easier for people to cross from the car park to the church.  

Most changes were supported, although people were divided on the need for more seating in this area.  

Theme 4: Village Hall

The proposals suggested formalising the parking outside of the village hall, creating parallel parking spaces. It is also proposed that planting and seating could be included. It is proposed that a zebra crossing is introduced, relocating the bus layby to the junction of Spiceall. The former layby will be converted into a public space.  

Most changes were supported, although people would prefer to retain the parking and do not see the need for seating in this area.   

Theme 5: Spiceall Junction 

The proposals suggested the introduction of a 20mph speed limit that would begin at the Spiceall Junction. A raised junction is proposed in addition to moving the bus stop west of the junction. It is also proposed that planting, seating and a wooden bin are added.  

All changes in this area were supported. Within the free text box in this section, analysis of the comments showed the key themes included the preservation of the Compton phone box, concern and support for traffic and safety measures and some people not wanting planters and landscaping.  

Theme 6: Traffic Calming 

The proposals suggested various traffic calming measures throughout Compton village including potential priority give-way locations, centre line removal, further potential 20mph speed limits, village gateways and raised tables.  

Most proposals to reduce speeds in the village were supported. Some options presented are either/ or, rather than both, and some options can only be introduced in conjunction with other solutions. Therefore, the project team will be reviewing these results in more detail, and in collaboration with road safety experts, prior to any decisions being made.  

Theme 7: Improved Pedestrian Accessibility 

The proposals suggest two areas where pedestrian accessibility can be improved: Down Lane and Polsted Lane. It is also suggested that wayfinding could be introduced throughout the village.  

All proposals were supported. Analysis of the free text responses shows people were keen to retain existing parking levels and while speed reduction measures are supported by most, there are some concerns over the impact of speed tables. 

Next steps 

Overall, many of the proposals were supported by residents. However, as a number of options were presented, some of which were either/ or options, and others can only be introduced in combination with other changes, further detailed analysis is required, in collaboration with road safety experts, to understand what we will be progressing with.  

This process is expected to take 6 to 9 months with construction possibly starting in summer 2026. We will update you when we have a confirmed plan and timeline.  

Demographics

The Commonplace site engaged a diverse group of participants with various connections to Compton. Participants could select multiple answers, and among those who responded, the majority (over 100) were residents of the area.  

A quarter of the respondents were retired and over half of the respondents were in employment.  

Our highest response rate came from those between 45-54 years of age and our lowest response rate came from those under 24.