Tonbridge is poised for a transformative redevelopment centred around the Angel Centre and Sainsbury’s car park. This comprehensive project, driven by Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, aims to inject new life into the town with a series of significant developments.

The blueprint for Tonbridge’s rejuvenation includes the construction of a new hotel, the addition of 300 residential units, an array of retail outlets, and the creation of a modern, carbon-neutral leisure centre. This plan is part of the council’s broader strategy to revitalise the town centre, making it more aligned with the contemporary needs and aspirations of its community.

The council has identified an opportunity to optimise the town’s spatial layout by addressing the current oversupply of parking spaces. The proposal suggests the potential introduction of underground parking solutions, which would release surface space for more impactful uses. This approach adheres to the council’s commitment to a ‘brownfield first’ policy, which prioritises redevelopment on previously developed land. While discussions on the affordability aspect of the residential units are ongoing, the council is aiming for at least 40% of the homes to be classified as affordable housing.

Central to the redevelopment effort is the council’s intent to foster strong collaborative ties with stakeholders, including Kent County Council, to explore the integration of county services into the project. A notable feature of the plan is the proposed new medical centre, intended to serve the expanding patient base of Warders Medical Centre, underscoring the project’s focus on community well-being.

The project’s next phases involve a rigorous feasibility study, backed by £1.85 million in council funding and an additional £150,000 from an HMRC tax rebate. The council is keen on examining detailed costings and potential funding mechanisms, which may include forming partnerships with the private sector. Emphasising that this redevelopment is a long-term endeavour, the council is gearing up for public consultations to ensure that the project reflects the needs and desires of the Tonbridge community.