A Christmas and New Year message from the Mayor
I have really enjoyed my year as Mayor so far. It has given me the opportunity to meet so many incredible people in our Borough; the people that help make it such a great place to live and work.
The common thread running through so many events I attend is community involvement. People giving up their time, energy and experience to create something special for everyone, whether it's a village fete, a community shop or the many charities I visit. The Mayor's Toy Appeal for me has encapsulated many of these elements. Local school children buying toys for other children, less fortunate than themselves and who they will never meet, allowing them to share the joy of Christmas, all supported by an army of fabulous volunteers who make the magic happen.
I have been encouraged by how many people have told me that they feel a sense of positivity about our Borough and Royal Tunbridge Wells. I had the pleasure of cutting the ribbon on the opening of the new Primark store, which, only slightly tongue in cheek, I said was the most momentous event for the town since Beau Nash arrived in 1735! There are plans in the pipeline for a cinema, larger shops and affordable housing at Royal Victoria Place, which have the potential to further boost the wider local economy.
I am looking forward to 2026, where we should have greater clarity on how Local Government Reorganisation will affect our Borough and the possibility of a new town council for Royal Tunbridge Wells. However, I am most excited by the opportunity of being able to meet as many as possible of our fantastic residents before the end of my term in May.
Wishing everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous 2026.
Mayor of Tunbridge Wells David Osborne
