Retirement Villages Group (RVG) is proud to announce the official launch of Botanical Place, its latest Independent Retirement Community in West Byfleet, marking a significant milestone for the development and the local area.
Residents, neighbours and members of the wider West Byfleet community gathered to celebrate the formal opening of Botanical Place, with more than 50 guests in attendance including councillors, local community organisations, retailers and business partners, as well as representatives from groups such as the Byfleet Art Group. The event was widely praised by attendees, reflecting the exceptional design, quality and strong sense of connection already being established between the village and the local community.
Opening of Botanical Place Marked by Woking’s New Mayor
The occasion was distinguished by the presence of both the outgoing Mayor of Woking, Cllr Amanda Boote, and the newly appointed Mayor, Cllr Rob Leach, with Cllr Leach attending his first official engagement in post and commenting that “West Byfleet can only benefit from this community-based approach to living.”
Attendees were also introduced to Aluna - Botanical Place's wellness space, open to both residents and the wider West Byfleet community. Aluna features a hydrotherapy pool, sanarium, fitness studio and state of the art EGYM equipment. The tour experience offered further insight into how wellbeing, creativity and social interaction are thoughtfully woven together throughout the development.
Reflections from RVG, Woking and Design Partners
Tim Seddon, CEO of Retirement Villages Group, said:
“Botanical Place is our flagship Thrive Living community, and today is a moment to celebrate what it represents - not just for our residents, but for West Byfleet as a whole. We've replaced a building that had long since had its day with something that genuinely gives back to this town: a public square, new amenities, local partnerships, and a community built around connection and independent living. This is the result of a huge collective effort, and we are grateful to the many partners, local stakeholders and teams who have worked with us to bring Botanical Place to life. We are proud that this opens as a net zero development - that matters both to us and to the people choosing to make their home here. As long-term owners and operators, our commitment to Botanical Place doesn't end at launch. It starts here.”
Councillor Rob Leach, Mayor of Woking, said:
"It was a pleasure to attend the official opening of Botanical Place and see first-hand the quality of the facilities on offer. The apartments, shared spaces and roof garden have been thoughtfully designed, and I was particularly impressed by the warm and welcoming approach of the team. This is a fantastic addition to West Byfleet, and one that will make a positive contribution to the local community.”
Jenny Buterchi, Partner at PRP Architects, said:
“Botanical Place is the culmination of our vision for urban living in later life: a regeneration of West Byfleet’s heart that creates a new, vibrant intergenerational destination for the whole community. Our meticulously crafted design which beautifully embeds within the local arts and crafts context, places older people at its core, with every amenity on their doorstep. This ensures they will not only thrive and foster deep connections, but actively celebrate the invaluable contributions they bring to community life in their later years. Through landscape-led design and active public spaces, Botanical Place reflects PRP’s commitment to creative places that support healthier lifestyles for all, encourage meaningful social interaction, and deliver lasting environment and social value.”
A Place to Live, Connect and Thrive
Located in the heart of West Byfleet and designed by PRP Architects, Botanical Place forms part of RVG’s Thrive Living collection and sets a new standard for later living in Surrey. The development, which replaces a long redundant 1990s office building, comprises 197 one- and two-bedroom apartments alongside a range of shared amenities, including a restaurant, wellness facilities and social spaces including spectacular roof gardens providing both seclusion and wonderful views of the Surrey Hills, all centred around a vibrant public square that connects residents with the wider town. There is also a mix of retail units, further embedding Botanical Place into the heart of the local community.
This includes new dining destination Yarrow, where seasonal British produce meets thoughtful, contemporary craft and spectacular interior design. At the helm is Chef Kyle Robinson, whose Michelin-starred experience brings a refined yet relaxed approach to the menu, championing a deep respect for local ingredients at their peak. The development also runs regular coffee mornings, open days and community events, offering a relaxed and accessible way for local people to experience the village.
Clarity, Confidence and Peace of Mind
For those considering a move to Botanical Place, the financial model is designed to remove the uncertainty that has historically made later living a difficult decision. RVG's Guaranteed Repayment Lease guarantees residents or their estate the price originally paid, minus a deferred management fee agreed upfront at purchase. There are no hidden administration, agency or refurbishment costs, and management fees cease two months after the property is vacated - even if unsold. It is a model built around the interests of residents and their families, giving them financial confidence and the peace of mind of knowing exactly where they stand.
Sustainability is also a defining feature of Botanical Place, which has been designed as a whole-life net zero carbon development, demonstrating RVG’s commitment to delivering future-focused, environmentally responsible communities.
Captured Moments from the Celebration
