Street naming and numbering

We are responsible for allocating new addresses and street names within the borough of Tunbridge Wells. This includes:

• addressing new developments and property conversions
• adding and updating property names
• amending existing addresses in the Royal Mail database

We consult with Royal Mail for postcode allocation. We share the address data we hold with Royal Mail, postal and emergency services.

Make an application

All street naming and numbering applications must be submitted online.

Before you begin, please identify the type of application you need to make below.

Application types

We handle a variety of requests for both new and existing properties.

New properties:

• Register a single address in an existing street: For individual new builds or conversions.
• Register more than one new address in an existing street: For small developments within an established street.
• Register a property development that includes a new street(s): For larger developments requiring new street names and multiple new addresses.

Existing properties:

• Add a name to a numbered property: For example,  '1 Church Road' to become 'Tree House, 1 Church Road'
• Change or remove the name of a property: For example, change 'Blue House, High Street' to be 'Pink House, High Street'
• Correct an address: To fix spelling mistakes, postcode errors, or other inaccuracies in your address.
• Add address to Royal Mail database: For properties that exist but are not yet formally registered.

What you'll need to apply

To ensure a smooth application process, please have the following ready:

• A credit or debit card to pay your application fee.
• A site plan(s) showing plot numbers and, if applicable, floor plans.
• Relevant planning application and approved plan number(s) (if applicable to your application type).
• We highly recommend reviewing our street naming and numbering guidance for detailed information before you start.

Start your application

Application types and fees

You can make an application online for the following services:

The application process

• We process applications as set out in our street naming and numbering policy.
• If you apply to create a new street(s), we will consult with ward councillors and the parish council.
• We send the address proposals to Royal Mail for comment and postcode confirmation.
  Please note: Due to a current backlog with Royal Mail, this step is currently taking around 5 weeks.
• Once approved, we then issue the official Street Naming and Numbering Notice. We send the Notice to the applicant/developer and statutory bodies.
• The time taken to process an application is dependent on its type. Simple applications like an address change often take less than one month. More complex applications that involve research or consultations will take longer to process.

Royal Mail address inclusion criteria (PAF)

Royal Mail will only add an address to their Postcode Address File (PAF) if:

• the property has a permanent building (residential or commercial).
• the building is capable of receiving mail (i.e. it is occupied or ready for occupation).
• the address is used daily for residential or business purposes.
• the location is safe and accessible for postal delivery (e.g. not a construction site or hard hat area).

Royal Mail will not add:

• empty plots of land
• agricultural buildings
• allotments
• stables or similar structures
• any location that cannot receive mail

The PAF is not a national address register. It is a delivery database used solely to support Royal Mail’s postal operations.

Damaged or missing street signs

For damaged or missing street nameplates, please email our Street Scene team depot@tunbridgewells.gov.uk.

For any enquires regarding road signs, please contact Kent County Council Highways.