Royal Victoria Place Proposals Progress
Proposals to transform Ely Court as part of the Royal Victoria Place proposed development are advancing to the next stage following confirmation that the former Friendly Societies Hall and ground floor shops at 3-7 Camden Road will not be listed.
The project will create a welcoming, vibrant and attractive destination that brings more people into the town centre during the day and evening, helping support nearby businesses and strengthening Tunbridge Wells' economy.
The proposals also respond to feedback gathered from residents, including a borough-wide digital survey of 2,860 people, which identified strong support for a town centre cinema.
The decision by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) follows the recommendation from Historic England that 3-7 Camden Road should not be added to the List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest and that a Certificate of Immunity from Listing (COIL) should be issued for the building.
The proposals form part of the wider transformation of Royal Victoria Place, alongside improvements to Palm Court that will modernise the shopping centre and create additional retail, food, beverage and leisure space. They build on many recent successes at the shopping centre, including many new shops and businesses, the car park refurbishment with rooftop solar panels, increased footfall, more events and more support for community organisations.
Cllr Justine Rutland, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Chair of the cross-party Investment Advisory Panel, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, said:
“We welcome the clarity provided by the listing decision, which means the Ely Court and Royal Victoria Place proposals can now progress through the planning process.
Throughout this process there has been strong interest from residents, businesses, community groups and local organisations, reflecting just how important the future of our town centre is to local people.
While the former Friendly Societies Hall will not be listed, our proposals retain and enhance its distinctive frontage so that an important part of Camden Road's historic character continues to be reflected within the wider redevelopment.
"The Ely Court plans, together with the improvements already progressing at Palm Court, will help create new opportunities for leisure, dining and entertainment, supporting businesses and encouraging more people to spend time in the town centre both during the day and into the evening.
"We look forward to sharing further details on the next steps later this year."
Alex Green, Chief Executive, Royal Tunbridge Wells Together BID, said:
“We are excited by the benefits the proposed development within the Royal Victoria Place shopping centre will bring to our members and are pleased this project is progressing. A significant investment in the core of our town will undoubtedly assist Royal Tunbridge Wells to thrive as a desirable destination for both visitors and residents alike.”
