The Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Full Council meeting on 22 April 2026 addressed a range of important local issues, including the future of Royal Victoria Place, community safety, waste collection services, and the preservation of the Pantiles Colonnade. Key decisions were made regarding the award of a new waste collection contract and the approval of the Community Safety Partnership Plan for 2026-27.

Royal Victoria Place Redevelopment Concerns

Significant public concern was raised regarding the proposed redevelopment of Royal Victoria Place (RVP). Mr James Tansley questioned the Council's financial commitment to the £42 million project, asking why taxpayer funds were being used to subsidise a small group of businesses and questioning the projected revenue streams in light of previous losses. Councillor Justine Rutland, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Deputy Leader, defended the project, stating it was designed to be self-financing through increased economic activity and business rates, and that it was a crucial step in revitalising the town centre. Mr Tansley also raised concerns about the engagement with the Victoria Snooker Centre, which faces demolition as part of the RVP plans, and the lack of a full and transparent public debate on the RVP's future. Councillor Rutland assured that further public engagement and debate would occur, with a rigorous economic analysis to be presented.

Community Safety Partnership Plan Approved

The Tunbridge Wells Community Safety Partnership Plan 2026-27 was approved by the Council. Councillor Corinna Keefe, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, presented the plan, highlighting five key priorities: domestic abuse, anti-social behaviour and business-related crime, substance misuse, road safety, and violence against women and girls. The plan outlines actions such as promoting support schemes for domestic abuse survivors, using CCTV to tackle anti-social behaviour, improving signposting for support services, educating young people on road safety, and increasing the late-night presence in the town centre. The plan was developed through a collaborative process involving various local partners, including Kent County Council, the Police, and voluntary organisations. Councillors Sankey and Pound commended the work of the Community Safety Unit and its manager, Terry Hughes, for their efforts in making the borough a safer place.

New Waste Collection Contract Awarded

A new Household Recycling, Waste Collection and Street Cleansing Contract was awarded to Bidder A for the period of 1 April 2027 to 31 March 2039. Councillor Rob Wormington, Cabinet Member for Environment and Sustainability, thanked the officers for their work on this complex procurement, which was undertaken in partnership with Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council. Councillor Downing expressed support for the contract but voiced disappointment that bins for cardboard waste were not included in the renegotiated contract, preferring boxes. Councillor Wormington acknowledged this point, stating that the introduction of bins could be considered further down the line due to cost implications. The award of the contract was agreed by Full Council.

Pantiles Colonnade Maintenance Motion Passed

A motion concerning the maintenance and renovation of The Pantiles Colonnade was passed, with one abstention. Councillor Hugo Pound, who moved the motion, highlighted the colonnade's status as a significant heritage asset and expressed concern over its deteriorating condition, citing visible issues like water ingress and the use of temporary supports. He urged the Council to facilitate dialogue between the owner, Target Follow, and other stakeholders to develop a specific maintenance and renovation plan. Councillor Matt Lowe, Cabinet Member for Planning, acknowledged the ongoing discussions with Target Follow regarding repairs and stated his support for the motion. Councillor Matthew Sankey, who declared an interest as a leaseholder on The Pantiles, welcomed the intent but questioned the necessity and proportionality of the motion, noting that a service charge system and repair obligations already exist. Councillor Wilkinson and Councillor Fairweather spoke in support of the motion, emphasising the heritage importance of the site and the need for accountability. Councillor Johnson expressed concern about placing undue pressure on businesses operating on The Pantiles. Councillor Rutland seconded the motion, acknowledging the complexity of balancing the needs of residents, businesses, and visitors.

Opposition to Removal of Planning Call-In Powers

The Council resolved to formally oppose any government proposals to remove or significantly restrict planning call-in powers. Councillor Thomas Mobbs, who moved the motion, argued that these powers are vital for local democratic oversight, transparency, and accountability in the planning process, particularly for rural areas. He highlighted that the proposed changes would undermine local democracy and reduce public scrutiny. Councillor David Knight and Councillor Hugh Patterson spoke in strong support, emphasizing the importance of these powers for residents and parish councils. Councillor Pound offered a nuanced perspective, supporting the opposition to a total removal of call-in powers but suggesting that some elements of the procedure could be refined for greater rigour. The motion was carried, with Councillor Sanke abstaining.

Other Matters Discussed

• Appointment to Audit and Governance Committee: Parish Councillor Paul Currie was appointed to the Audit and Governance Committee as a Parish Representative for a four-year term.
• Questions from the Public: Several questions were raised by Mr James Tansley regarding the Royal Victoria Place redevelopment, council employment costs, and the Council's pay policy. Councillor Mark Ellis, Cabinet Member for Innovation & Transformation, responded to a question about director-grade salaries.
• Questions from Members of the Council: Councillor Hugo Pound questioned the source and process of grants to Rusthall and Speldhurst Parish Councils and the Cost of Living Support Fund. Councillor Tom Dawlings inquired about the distribution of government funds for heating oil assistance. Councillor Matthew Sankey questioned Councillor Justine Rutland about Liberal Democrat election pledges concerning VAT, CCTV funding, and independent shops. Councillor David Knight asked about the timeframe for complying with a Planning Inspector's ruling on an illegal development. Councillor Jayne Sharratt enquired about the Council running creative and leisure adult courses at The Amelia.
• Use of Emergency Procedures: The use of urgency procedures in relation to the Revenue Management Report Quarter 3 was noted.
• Common Seal of the Council: Authority was given for the common seal of the Council to be affixed to various documents.
• Date of Next Meeting: The next meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, 20 May 2026.