Dinton Activity Centre, Wokingham
With the former Dinton Activity Centre in Dinton Pastures Country Park, Surrey, no longer fit for purpose, the decision was taken to build a new one.
Acting for Reds10, the modular construction and prefabricated construction company, DHA secured planning permission for the replacement centre, which will be Wokingham's first net zero carbon neutral building.
Designed by HLM Architects and clad in Siberian larch, the two-storey centre will incorporate many environmentally sensitive technologies. These include air source heat pumps, roof-mounted solar panels and natural ventilation via innovative wind catchers on top of the building.As the site is next to a large lake and river channel, DHA worked with the Environment Agency and stakeholders to overcome concerns about flooding.
The car park, which is shared by the country park and the activity centre, will also be re- engineered. The application received unanimous approval from Wokingham Borough Council. The current activity centre will remain open while the new one is built.
Project Team
Matthew specialises in rural planning and has extensive experience in barn conversions, agricultural development, rural business growth and farm diversification projects. He is also DHA’s lead specialist on permitted development rights and point of contact on MOD projects.
Matthew Garvey MRTPI
Director
Matthew joined DHA in 2012 as a Graduate Planner, having previously worked at Kent County Council. He holds a Bachelor of Science (Hons) Degree in Geography and completed an MSc in Town Planning at the University of Brighton in 2014.
Over the course of his career at DHA, Matthew has progressed through the business, culminating in his promotion to Director in June 2026.
With more than a decade of experience in planning consultancy, Matthew advises a diverse client base ranging from major developers, contractors and landed estates to farmers, businesses and private landowners. He has successfully managed a broad spectrum of planning projects and is recognised for providing clear, commercially focused advice that helps clients navigate complex planning issues.
While his work spans multiple sectors, Matthew specialises in rural planning and has extensive experience in barn conversions, agricultural development, rural business growth and farm diversification projects. He is also DHA’s lead specialist on permitted development rights and point of contact on MOD projects. He ensures clients benefit from the latest legislative changes and opportunities.
His practical approach, detailed knowledge of planning policy and commitment to delivering results make him a trusted adviser to clients across the South East and beyond.