The Tonbridge Community Forum met on 1 September 2025 to discuss a range of issues affecting the local community. The agenda included updates on the town centre redevelopment, the new Angel Centre, and a community governance review, as well as a discussion about the speed limit on Lower Haysden Lane. The forum was also asked to agree to the appointment of Imago Community as a member.

Here's a summary of the topics that were scheduled to be discussed:

Tonbridge Town Centre Redevelopment

The forum was scheduled to receive an update on the Tonbridge Town Centre Redevelopment. At the previous meeting on 19 May 2025, Councillor Adem Mehmet, Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Tonbridge Regeneration, had reported that the central location of the new leisure facility had been confirmed as Sovereign Way Mid Car Park, but the design had yet to be confirmed. Councillor Adem Mehmet had also provided assurance that consideration would be given to the archaeological period of the site.

New Angel Centre

The forum was scheduled to receive a presentation on plans for a new Angel Centre. The Angel Centre is a sports and leisure centre in Tonbridge.

Community Governance Review

The forum was scheduled to receive details of the outcome of the Community Governance Review.

Speed Limit on Lower Haysden Lane

Following a request from Tonbridge Bicycle Users Group, the forum was scheduled to receive an update on the speed limit on Lower Haysden Lane following a fatality.

Kent Police Update

Kent Police were scheduled to provide a written update on neighbourhood policing and recent initiatives and operations. This update was scheduled to be circulated in advance of the meeting. At the previous meeting, concerns had been raised about the high level of shoplifting in the town, particularly in and around Cannon Lane.

Membership of the Tonbridge Community Forum

Members were asked to agree to the appointment of Imago Community as a member of the Tonbridge Community Forum. At the previous meeting, Lysette D'Urso, Community Development Co-ordinator, had provided a brief overview of Imago Community, explaining that its services support vulnerable adults and those in caring roles to maintain independence, navigate challenges and improve overall wellbeing.

Tonbridge U3A Verbal Report

The Tonbridge U3A was scheduled to provide a summary of their activities and how people can get involved.

Other items

The agenda also included:

• Confirmation of the minutes of the meeting held on 19 May 2025.
• An update on any action identified in the last minutes.
• Promotion of upcoming events.
• Any other business.