Sir Paul Beresford expressed his concern over the Mole Valley local plan, criticising the Liberal Democrats for failing to protect green belt areas and enhance towns such as Dorking and Leatherhead. He highlighted procedural issues at the full council meeting where no proper vote was taken on the draft plan despite a clear opposition from Conservative and independent councillors. Beresford stressed that key stakeholders like Surrey County Council, health organisations, water companies were not involved in discussions. He emphasised the need for creative approaches to meet housing targets while preserving green spaces, suggesting development of modern flats near commuter hubs as an alternative to sprawling homes on the periphery. He lamented the neglect of well-thought-out village neighbourhood plans by the Liberal Democrats and urged the Minister to provide guidance to the planning inspector.