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Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Centre Neighbourhood
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Royal Tunbridge Wells - The Town Centre Area Action Plan Development Plan Document
11 July 2010 — Consultations on "The Town Centre Area Action Plan Development Plan" and "The Allocations Development Plan" and "The Transport Strategy" are held from 14 June 2010 to 9 August 2010.
The designation of an important Open Space will be submitted again: Trinity & Environs — an essential part of the cultural life of the Town Centre, the future of which needs to be secure, together with its important green setting and surrounding open spaces.
Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Centre Area Action Plan: Trinity & Environs - March 2009
DO PARTICIPATE and complete the questionnaires! - It is in the interests of all; it is not just for the current period, it is looking at the mid term and at least towards 2026!
Royal Tunbridge Wells Consultation Pack - TCAAP and Borough Transport Strategy
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Trinity Theatre — The Importance Of Being Earnest - Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy
9 July 2009 — The play will be performed by TTC (Trinity's Amateur Theatre Company) inside the Theatre, whilst Trinity Gardens will be transformed into a "Victorian Summer Garden". Pimms and high tea will be served from one hour before each performance, or bring your own pre-show picnic to enjoy in this lovely setting!
- from Tue 20 July 2009 (evenings) to Sun 25 July 2009 (3pm)
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The Decentralisation and Localism Bill
4 July 2010 - The new legislation has outlined a number of proposals to empower local authorities and citizens through increased decentralisation e.g. introducing directly elected mayors and police commissioners; devolving the financial powers of local government; increasing transparency and letting local citizens choose the organisational structure of their local council; maximising the role of the Third Sector in delivering public services; creating a Big Society Bank, which will provide neighbourhood groups, charities and social enterprises with sustainable funding; empowering neighbourhood groups to take over local amenities.
Greg Clark MP for Tunbridge Wells is the Minister for Decentralisation.
 News from Communities and Local Government
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SAFER AND STRONGER COMMUNITIES - Ward Walks in Culverden
(west side - cinema/station side of Mount Pleasant) in the town centre of Royal Tunbridge Wells
7 June 2010 — As part of the Ward Walks in the Borough - a six-year programme which started in 2007 - this year's ward walk will be arranged during June 2010 (Wed.9 June 10am-2pm, Th.10 June 1.30pm-5pm, Sat.12 June 10am-12, Mo.14 June 1.30pm-5pm, Tu.15 June 4.15pm-7.15pm, Th.17 June 4.15pm-7.15pm, Fr.18 June 10am -12) for Culverden Ward (Councillors Ronen Basu, John Miller, Leonard Price) to interview residents face to face about local issues.
The ward walk for Park Ward, east side of Mount Pleasant (inc. Monson, Calverley Road), is scheduled for 2013/14; Pantiles/St.Mark's of RTW is scheduled for 2012/13.
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York Road
— Why are we not informed by Civic Society regarding a survey they claim to have done about our neighbourhood?
30 May 2010 — The Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society alleges,
"it is committed to the development and improvement of Tunbridge Wells as well as its protection and preservation. Active in campaigning on issues affecting the character of the town and the rights of citizens to participate in decisions about its future". . . . .
— if that were the case we would not need to raise so many issues!
Alastair Tod: "On behalf of the Council we have just completed a survey of the York Road/ Dudley Road area to control front garden parking."
Tim Pendry: "This territory, from the top of Mount Ephraim down to Church Road (including Lime Hill, Dudley and York Roads), is treated by the Council and (on the evidence of the interview TWPeople/Civic Society) by the Civic Society as if it does not exist."
 Why does Civic Society not even inform the neighbourhood about their survey and its results which might affect us?
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Royal Tunbridge Wells - Typical Urban Character Area Appraisal
28 May 2010 — As part of the Tunbridge Wells Borough Local Development Framework the Council published the Typical Urban Character Area Appraisal for Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Consultation on "The Town Centres Area Action Plan Development Plan" and "The Allocations Development Plan" will commence on 14 June 2010.
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Local Councillors Election and Member of Parliament Election
13 May 2010 - Re-elected Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark will be the Minister of State for Decentralisaion within the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG).
Introduced by the MP, Archie Norman - who supported the community during the Telephone House debacle - to the RTW Town Centre Neighbourhood, Greg Clark has been
- MP for Tunbridge Wells, since May 2005
- Member of Public Accounts Committee, 2005-2006
- Shadow Minister for Charities, Social Enterprise and Volunteering, 2006-2008
- Shadow Minister for Teesside, 2006-May 2010
- Shadow Secretary of State for Energy & Climate Change, 2008-May 2010
Greg Clark, MP for Tunbridge Wells - "Minister for People Power" -
Minister of State for Communities and Local Government spoke to the Courier at his offices in London
(publication Friday 21.05.2010)
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Environs of Trinity - Town Centre Amenity
19 April 2010 — Planning Application 10/00454 proposes a "new outside seating area on the corner of Mount Pleasant Road and Church Road", - this is the open space next to the Priory, with a public bench, a litter bin & an information drum about Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Additionally plans were submitted concerning the building occupied by Hawkshead (71-75 Mount Pleasant Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1PX) - "change of use of ground floor from retail to part retail delicatessen, food servery and cafe seating; first floor change of use from retail area to food preperation, storage, wc's and further seating".
TWBC Planning Department granted permission with conditions that the development preserves the special character and appearance of the Conservation Area.
Announcement by Hawkshead Outdoor and Country Clothing (71-73 Mount Pleasant):
closure on 25 May 2010.
"Our open spaces, parks, streets, town centres and village greens are great assets; they form the heart of our communities; they should be places where we can all be proud and confident."
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Local Authorities' new powers to impose levy on developers to fund green infrastructure
Community Infrastructure Levy as of 6 April 2010
2 April 2010 — Developers should be required to make a greater contribution to improving the sustainability of communities in climate change adaptation, according to the parliamentary environmental audit committee which published the report "Adapting to Climate Change". It highlighted the possibility for local authorities to use a new Government Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) to gain income from developers that can be used for creating green elements such as parks, green spaces, cultural and sports facilities. The CIL comes into force on 6 April and local authorities will be empowered, but not required, to levy the charge on new developments. The rates will be set locally to reflect the need for new infrastructure and will apply to new builds over 100sq m internal floor space, as well as additional floor space added in redevelopments. The report urged the Government to encourage all local authorities to use income from the CIL to fund climate change adaptation work. — Horticulture Week / Communities and Local Government
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Trinity - Art and Culture in Royal Tunbridge Wells
31 March 2010 — TUNBRIDGE WELLS BOROUGH COUNCIL GRANTS £390,590 to 18 local charitable groups.
The decision to award these grants came from 3 March’s cabinet meeting, in which members
review recommendations from the Community Grants Scheme, for 33 organisations. The
groups range in size and style and the funding has been allocated accordingly. Larger grants
were awarded to Tunbridge Wells Citizens’ Advice Bureaux, Trinity Theatre and Tunbridge
Wells Age Concern; smaller grants were awarded to community groups like the Tunbridge
Wells Volunteer Centre, TW International Music Festival.
Cabinet noted that although the current economic circumstances were placing pressure on
budgets, the Council would continue to assist voluntary and community organisations with
projects that help to achieve the Borough Council’s corporate priorities and contribute to the
borough Sustainable Communities Plan and other key strategies.
The two largest approved grants and amounts:
| Tunbridge Wells Citizens’ Advice Bureaux |
£199,000 |
| Trinity Theatre |
£88,000 |
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Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Centre Walk
4 March 2010 — Note of the Town Centre walk to point out problem areas in the neighbourhood:
neighbourhood issues in RTW Town Centre around Trinity and the Fiveways area
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Royal Tunbridge Wells in Bloom — Bloom is back in Royal Tunbridge Wells in 2010
. . . and that's what happened last time: Royal Tunbridge Wells in Bloom 2003
Judge for Yourself - Gold: - York Road
Best Street - Silver: - York Road
Best Large Front Garden - Gold: 33 York Road (Margaret Naylor)
Best Large Front Garden - Highly Commended: York Road/corner London Road (Emma Cox)
Royal Tunbridge Wells in Bloom 2003 — "Historical and Interesting Views of Tunbridge Wells"
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Communities Secretary calls for Community Champions
to tackle anti-social behaviour in their neighbourhoods
February 2010 — Anti-social behaviour problems are e.g. nuisance neighbours, dog fouling, graffiti, fly-posting, groups causing harassment and intimidation, reckless driving of mini-motorbikes, fly-tipping, litter, abandoned vehicles, street drinking, prostitution / kerb crawling, vandalism, fireworks misuse.
Tunbridge Wells anti-social behaviour coordinator is Terry Hughes (terry.hughes@tunbridgewells.gov.uk, 01892 526121)
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Love Where We Live —
to enhance and promote communitey pride in Tunbridge Wells
February 2010 — Tunbridge Wells Together - Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 2026
Consultation Draft — any comments until 16 April to Community & Corporate Planninng, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council
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Environs of Trinity
RTW Town Centre Amenity
13 February 2010
— Trinity Garden used in a different way:
Meeting Point and Lantern Collection Point.
The Lantern Parade (Chinese New Year - The Tiger) started at Trinity and moved through the town centre (Fiveways and Precinct), and down Camden Road, finishing at St Barnabas Primary School.
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Pitcher & Piano - Church Road
January 2010 — Pitcher & Piano - planning application TW/09/03811 - front area (environmental issues / streetscene)
Noise: Pitcher and Piano’s customers surely contribute a lot to the disturbances during night time in the surrounding residential areas. This should be considered when reviewing this planning application and we agree with the environmental officer that outside serving of food and drinks should be limited to 9:00 pm or earlier.
Music - Noise: A condition would need to be set that no music is allowed in the outside areas and that the level of inside music is such that it is not being used to entertain outside guests by its sheer volume. At present the bass of music playing at P&P can be heard inside houses of the neighbouring area – not only in the townhouses of Belvedere Terrace, Church Road, but as well up to York Road ( even after midnight )
Food Outlet Smell: Further, there were many reports from members of the Town Forum during the past years about inadequate ventilation of food outlets in the town centre. A restaurant style outside barbeque will just simply produce a stench in the whole area unless of course odour neutralising canopies are used over the cooking area. This should be a condition.
Bin Area - Noise/Streetscene: The awful looking bin area on the east side (cinema site) of the building is left un-tackled. It is not unusual for staff of Pitcher Piano to do bottling in late night hours. This is a great nuisance to the residents. The bins so close to food preparation could become a health issue. The bin area would need to be reviewed.
Landscaping - Planning/Streetscene: Accepting that there is a vague attempt to do a bit of landscaping, but having witnessed over the years that plants are not watered and are left dried out and decayed for many months, we feel that this planning application will not make up for the environmental nuisance to the community. Condition would be needed that plants are maintained for the streetscene during the whole year.
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Winter Salting Routes in Royal Tunbridge Wells
4 January 2010 — Priority roads (about a third of the Kent's network - about 1,500 miles of road) are salted by Kent County Council. Kent Highway Services have 66 salting lorries working on the county's main roads; the salting operation covers 53 primary routes (A and B class roads, busy commuter routes and danger spots).
The motorways and trunk roads are salted by the Highways Agency.
MAP - Winter Salting Routes in KENT / Borough of Tunbridge Wells / Royal Tunbridge Wells and Town Centre:
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Tunbridge Wells Urban Neighbourhood Policing Team
January 2010 — Police Constables (PC) and Police Community Support Officers (PCSO)
Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Centre / Urban Neighbourhood Policing Team: Inspector Simon Wilshaw, Sergeant Diane Webster — Culverden Ward: PC Gavin Russell, PCSO Claire Cockburn
Tel: 01892 502104 / 01892 502001 - e-mail: tunbridgewellsnhp@kent.pnn.police.uk
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2009
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Royal Tunbridge Wells'
top grot spot
5 December 2009 —
"CINEMA PLEDGE BREACHED!"
During 2009 - NO DEMOLITION of
the former ABC Cinema,
10-15 Ritz Building Church Road,
shops 51-67 Mount Pleasant.
Only an ugly blue hoarding - far too short to cover the grot and after 4 months still without the promised historical prints - was erected by Rydell Properties (Joe O'Donovan - Lordland Europe and Panter Hudspith Architects).
The brick pavement is not left in full width until the real demolition starts; it is not pedestrian-friendly!
Cinema site - Royal Tunbridge Wells Top Grot Spot
The cinema is empty for ,
- since December 2000.
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Environmental and Highways issues
affecting the streetscene / streetscape of Royal Tunbridge Wells
November 2009 — Following the Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Forum Meeting (30 July 2009 - issues: Royal Tunbridge Wells Conservation Area at Risk, detractors in Royal Tunbridge Wells, problems blighting Royal Tunbridge Wells, grot spots) - the Leader of the Council, Cllr Roy Bullock, arranged the first meeting (23 Sept 2009) with Councillors and Borough Council Officers to present the Town Forum’s concerns of the numerous environmental issues affecting the streetscene / streetscape of Royal Tunbridge Wells and the second meeting (4 Nov 2009) with Kent County Council Officers to present the Town Forum’s concerns of the multiple Highways issues affecting the streetscene / streetscape of Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Environmental issues affecting the streetscene / streetscape of Royal Tunbridge Wells
TWBC / RTW Town Forum Meeting - ppt 23.09.09/db
Highways issues affecting the streetscene / streetscape of Royal Tunbridge Wells
Kent Highways Services / TWBC / RTW Town Forum Meeting - ppt 04.11.09/db
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Changes to Parking Zone C - Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Centre (Culverden ward / partially Park)
October 2008 — finally, the planned date for the implementation is 7 November 2009
"- residents will be able to obtain 2 permits per household and visitor permits
- restrictions will be changed to permit holders only between 5pm to 8pm"
In the evening, after 6pm (4pm on Su.), and during the night, until 8am (10am on Su.), the town's car parks are FREE !
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Summerhill House - 73 London Road
September 2009 — Again, since January 2008 (planning application by Sion Holdings Ltd - conversion into flats), nothing has happened with one of the Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Forum's Top Grot Spots! —
Top 10 RTW Eyesores (11/2005, re-visited 10/2006)
As the listed building is empty for more than a decade
neighbours ask whether the Council has issued
— a Repair Notice (Section 48 - Planning Act 1990 [Listed/Conservation Areas]) ?
— an Urgent Works Notice (Section 54) ?
Information on an empty property in the town Royal Tunbridge Wells
Report an Empty Property - The Kent Empty Property Initiative: www.no-use-empty.org
2008 — Around 1,400 homes in West Kent are known to be empty for six months or longer
(460 in the Borough of Tunbridge Wells, about 600 across Sevenoaks district, 288 in Tonbridge/Malling)
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Tunbridge Wells Heritage Open Days 10 - 13 September 2009
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Audit Commission to probe Town Hall 'boomerang bosses'
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21 August 2009 — ‘Seven deadly sins’ ruining Royal Tunbridge Wells
Royal Tunbridge Wells Conservation Area (made up of 11 character areas) at Risk of neglect, decay, damaging changes to streetscape / streetscene. The 'seven deadly sins' threaten to destroy forever the image of Royal Tunbridge Wells.
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Royal Tunbridge Wells Conservation Area at Risk
Among the Conservation Areas at Risk 2009 in the South East:
Local Authority: Tunbridge Wells
Name of conservation areas at risk: Royal Tunbridge Wells
Of the 25 Conservation Areas in the Borough of Tunbridge Wells,
the only one that is at Risk - is the one of the town Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Keeping our Conservation Areas in a condition of which we can all be proud is not just the job of the Conservation Officer. Everyone must work together, the community and the council as a whole. Article 4 Directions need local community backing and dealing with streets and open spaces should involve all parts of the council from its Highways Engineers to the Environmental Services department, to the Health and Education Services whose historic public buildings are often the focus of a conservation area.
July 2009 — Heritage at Risk
Who is responsible? — What you can do — What Local Authorities can do — What English Heritage will do
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The new chairman of Kent County Council represents Tunbridge Wells West
July 2009 — The new chairman of Kent County Council, John Davies, who was elected on 25 June 2009, has pledged that backing Kent business will be his number one priority during his year of office.
John was first elected to the county council in May 2001 and represents Tunbridge Wells West (Culverden ward in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Rusthall, Langton Green, Spelthurst, Bidborough). Since becoming a county council member, he has served on numerous committees, and he chairs the Tunbridge Wells Local Board and Youth Advisory Group.
The county's new chairman, living in Bishops Down, Royal Tunbridge Wells, is actively involved with a number of community organisations. He supports the work of Hospice in the Weald; Headway, the brain injury association; and the Trinity Theatre - a vibrant cultural venue in his home town.
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Royal Tunbridge Wells - erection of stone panorama (grant of the Royal prefix in 1909)
NO - to any tree felling to open up the views
7 July 2009 — At the Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Forum on 25 June 2009 the issue was raised:
Daniel Bech expressed his concern that the desired views of the Civic Society’s commemorative panorama on Mount Ephraim were blocked by about 25% due to trees standing in front of it. He asked for assurance that no trees would be cut as a consequence.
– Alastair Tod (Chairman of Civic Society) replied and said that there would be no cutting to trees and that in Tunbridge Wells, trees were part of the views.
Daniel questioned further, who would be responsible for maintaining the structure of the panorama.
– Alastair answered that he had an outstanding answer from the Council regarding maintenance, but if the Council would not want to commit themselves, the Civic Society would take over the responsibility and cost for maintenance.
We received further assurance from TWBC tree officer, Daniel Docker, that he and the Commons Conservators would not support the removal of trees and further from the Common's Warden, Steve Budden, giving assurance that despite the views are blocked no trees will be removed.
June 2009 - the "panoramic" view from Mount Ephraim.
June 2009 - the "closing view" of York Road towards Mount Ephraim.
York Road is a tree lined road and would lose an important focus should these trees on the Common be felled.
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1 in 7 Conservation Areas is at Risk —
English Heritage Survey
23 June 2009 — The results of English Heritage's first ever survey of the condition of conservation areas shows the top threats to be:
- plastic windows and doors (83% of conservation areas affected)
- poorly maintained roads and pavements (60%)
- street clutter (45%)
- loss of front garden walls, fences and hedges (43%) [front gardens converted into car parking]
- unsightly satellite dishes (38%)
- the effects of traffic calming or traffic management (36%)
- alterations to the fronts, roofs and chimneys of buildings (34%)
- unsympathetic extensions (31%)
- impact of advertisements (23%)
- neglected green spaces (18%)
Dr Simon Thurley, Chief Executive of English Heritage: "The problems fall into two main areas:
— what owners do to their properties and
— what councils do or fail to do to the streets, pavements, parks and public spaces."
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Trinity Theatre — Tartuffe (or THE IMPOSTER) - Molière’s classic comedy
— presented in Trinity Gardens by TTC, Trinity's Amateur Theatre Company,
from Tue 14 July 2009 to Sun 19 July 2009 at 3pm & 8pm.
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Tunbridge Wells Borough Local Development Framework
— Notice of public participation
May 2008 — The Borough Council is preparing a number of Development Plan Documents (DPDs) as part of its Local Development Framework (LDF), which will gradually replace the adopted Local Plan. Comments can be submitted for a period of six weeks from Wednesday 29 April 2009 to midnight on Wednesday 10 June 2009 on the Core Strategy and the Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Centre Area Action Plan.
5 June 2009 — Questions/Answers - Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Centre Area Action Plan and Allocations DPD
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CLEAN IT UP!
— "The Dogs (Fouling of Land Act 1996) Designated Area"
April 2009 — Tunbridge Wells Borough Council put up signs in the neighbourhood and at Trinity Garden giving a clear message that dog fouling will be prosecuted.
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Trinity and Environs- RTW Master Plan
26 March 2009 — The RTW Town Forum presented at its meeting "Aspirations for the Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Centre Area Action Plan" to the Leader of the Council, Roy Bullock, and Senior Council Officers.
The Town Forum looked at issues for inclusion in the new Master Plan for Royal Tunbridge Wells including Trinity & Environs
- an essential part of the cultural life of the area, the future of which needs to be secure, together with its important green setting and open spaces.
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Don't dump your rubbish into the neighbourhood! - RTW Town Centre
26 March 2009 — Problems in front/rear patios, service alleys/passageways were raised at the RTW Town Forum meeting.
And where will the additional recycling containers for plastic & tins go?
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Trinity Theatre — Free theatre for all under 26 year olds
1 March 2009 — Trinity Theatre and The Assembly Hall Theatre, Royal Tunbridge Wells, are taking part in an Arts Council England-funded scheme that is encouraging more young adults to enjoy the arts. This initiative is targeted at young adults to become regular theatre-goers, not just here in town, but across the South East.
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Royal Tunbridge Wells - the granting of the Royal prefix
Planning application - on the Common:
opposite 64 Mount Ephraim Road (between St Helena and Gibraltrar Cottage)
6 February 2009 — The Civic Society propose the erection of a stone panorama to mark the 50th anniversary of the foundation of their association and
the centenary of the grant of the Royal prefix in 1909.
However there are questions concerning
— the poor air quality on Mount Ephraim,
— the views, partially obstructed by trees and other growth,
— the maintenance of the area in future,
— the repair, should it be subjected to vandalism,
— the requested financial contribution via the TWBC Heritage Grant Scheme.
to comment on the application 09/00252
2008-08-30
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Licensing:
January 2009 — Dim T at 99-101 Mount Pleasant is closed
(next to the former Congregational Church, occupied now by Cotswold Outdoors / Ismail Cafe).
After Burger King (moved out in October 2005), a new owner announced to become a more caring neighbour.
However La Tasca pulled out and TWBC transferred their License to 'Took Us A Long Time Limited'.
"Dim T" opened in July 2006.
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15 January 2009 — Conversion of front gardens into parking spaces, not only in the Conservation Areas
MEETING at the Town Hall — Local Economy and Housing Select Committee (open to the Public) —
with Cllr Mrs Elizabeth Thomas (TWBC Cabinet Member, Planning), Rob Cottrill (Director Development/Planning),
Jim Kehoe (Head of Planning), RTW Town Forum & Parish representatives
 Surrender of Amenity Spaces for Transportation Infrastructure? or " LOVE WHERE WE LIVE "
Front Gardens turned into Car Parking Spaces in York Road
December 2008 — Preserve the relationship between the landscape and townscape of Royal Tunbridge Wells to secure its special character in the long term!
Urban green space in its many forms: private front gardens & back gardens, woodlands, allotments, verges, public parks and gardens -
" The gradual erosion of green infrastructure from concreting over front gardens to create parking spaces through to the sale of school playing fields and public spaces, needs to stop - and quickly."
York Road changes over the last decade:
 York Road - Best Residential Street in Royal Tunbridge Wells - 1994, 1995, 2001, 2002 (summer 2003 - start of development on Telephone House site)
York Road in the Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Centre - 2002
York Road, Front Gardens Nos.31-39 - 2002
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. . . and the future of Crest Nicholson in 2009?
28 December 2008 — Nick Mathiason/Heather Stewart
Number of new houses to plummet in 2009. Three weeks that changed the world in 2008.
"The future of Crest Nicholson, which is owned jointly by HBOS and Sir Tom Hunter, is equally uncertain now that Peter Cummings, the HBOS property executive who waived through the £750m deal, will leave the bank in the new year. It is unclear how Lloyds TSB will view the extensive property assets that it has now inherited through its acquisition of HBOS."
Crest Nicholson sold the controversial planning permission for the high density development
at the Telephone House site to Cala Homes (start of demolition/construction in 2003).
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2008
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TW Flats / TW Lettings
occupy with 6 cars
the 55'x15' land opposite No. 8 York Road
"Love Where We Live"
December 2008 — The unchanged attitude of
TW Flats'/ TW Lettings' - Justin Fletcher,
Adam Pooley, Neil Burton, Catherine Wittenberg -
reflects little appreciation for our neigbhourhood
regarding the Council's well received campaign.
If it this not ignorance, what then?
You would expect that agents making their living on promoting real estate would put an effort in keeping areas they are advertising, worth living.
This unacceptable situation has been going on for , - since 24 August 2006.
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Environs of Trinity
RTW Town Centre Amenity
13 December 2008
— Protection of Trinity Garden's lawn?
In April it looked like fixing bollards would be a start that the trend is reversed that every open space is used as space for parking cars!
How wrong we were trusting the good intentions!
Who allows this?
What is the purpose to turn this open space amenity into
a poorly maintained and disreputable place?
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Changing Community Life in Britain - The way we live now
1 December 2008 — Analysis of census data (during the last 30 years) reveals how neighbourhoods in every part of the UK have become more socially fragmented. The study assesses the health of a community by looking at how rooted people are in their neighbourhood.
The causes of social fragmentation are linked to mobility. Increased wealth and improved access to transport has made it easier for people to move for work, for retirement, for schools, for a new life. The decline in marriage, increasing divorce, immigration and a growing student population are also said to be contributory factors.
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Royal Tunbridge Wells'
top grot spot
12 November 2008 —
The former ABC Cinema,
Nos.10-15 Ritz Building Church Road,
Shops in Nos.51-67 Mount Pleasant Road,
Hill House and Clanricarde Medical Centre, Clanricarde Road,
will finally be demolished and redeveloped after Councillors of the Western Area Planning Committee approved plans and drawings by applicant Rydell Properties TODAY.
In September 2008 Panter Hudspith Architects, the winner of the design competition for the "Cinema GROT SPOT", submitted their planning application for a New Hotel/Office and Retail Development.
The cinema is empty for ,
- since December 2000.
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Tunbridge Wells Gateway — TWBC's Customer Services
The Town Hall will be closed to the public from Monday 3 November 2008
when all Council services will be delivered from the new Tunbridge Wells Gateway
at 8 Grosvenor Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells (not far from Fiveways - opposite Cafe Costa - close to Cafe Nero).
Open: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 9am - 5pm; Thursday 9am - 6.30pm; Saturday 10am - 4pm.
Get access to various Council Services and Partner Services (inc. Kent County Council) - e.g.
-- Acquire Zone C PARKING PERMITS for RESIDENTS and CONTRACTORS (e.g. builders, plumbers dispensation notices)
-- Find out about planning applications, housing, private rented sector, volunteering
-- Pay your Council Tax, parking penalities
-- Report grot spots in the street scene, issues with food hygiene or noise nuisances
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Norfolk Grange
"Telephone House Development 2000-2007"
October 2008 —
on the new information drums' posters in Royal Tunbridge Wells:
a far fetched artistic interpretation of the crammed high density development on the former Telephone House site (Church Road / York Road)
Would we not all have been happy 'that vision' had been followed through in 2000?
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Trinity Theatre — Changes:
Arts Centre's Director leaves - The Cafe's New Lessee: "Morello@Trinity"
16 October 2008 — Jonathan Salisbury (artistic programme) will leave again, after 2 years, in February 2009.
Board of Directors: Fiona Fountain, Chair - Carole Wanless, Vice Chair - Cllr Peter Bulman, Company Secretary (since 2007) - Stephen Mason, Finance Director - Caroline Elliott, Peter Emanuel, Felicia Foreman, Cllr Len Horwood, Hugo Wuyts.
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Comprehensive Performance Assessment (CPA)
of the Borough Council
undertaken by the Government's Audit Commission
October 2008 — The corporate assessment will look at the way in which the council conducts its business, its ambition for the community, the way in which it works with partners, its capacity to improve, its leadership, how accessible it is, its effectiveness and its community leadership role.
As a starting point the Audit Commission will use the council's own self-assessment
which illustrates TWBC's journey since it was found to be a ‘weak’ Council in 2004.
TWBC Self-assessment At one time we only reacted to criticism, now we lead by example...
TWBC Case Studies "I made a difference!"
Tunbridge Wells - The People, Place and Council: "Have you made a difference?"
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Do you need Planning Permission? — Important changes to the rules
1 October 2008 — There have been a number of important changes to planning legislation which alter what can and cannot be done without the need to make a planning application.
The changes affect the size and location of extensions and outbuildings that can be built, the provision of solar heating panels and the formation of hardstandings in front gardens
(construction of a driveway or other paved area).
New Rules for Permeable Surfacing of Front Gardens — Pros/Cons - Do/Don't
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Cinema Site -
"Building on the Ritz"
25 September 2008 — Panter Hudspith Architects' presentation materials for the former Cinema Site / Ritz Building (Mount Pleasant Road / Church Road) in the town centre of Royal Tunbridge Wells
New Hotel/Office and
Retail Development (Views, Model)
12 and 13 September 2008 — Public consultation will take place in 59-61 Mount Pleasant Road (formerly Jones Shoes). An exhibition is organised by Panter Hudspith Architects and Lordland Europe.
Leave your comments regarding the redevelopment of the Cinema site / Ritz building!
Send your comments regarding the redevelopment to planningcomments@tunbridgewells.gov.uk (ref: 08/03119 Demolition and 08/03126)
TWBC Planning Application Search
(the former cinema site, Nos.10-15 Ritz Building, Church Road; Nos.51-67 Mount Pleasant Road; and Hill House and Clanricarde Medical Centre, Clanricarde Road)
The cinema is empty for ,
- since December 2000.
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Tunbridge Wells Heritage Open Days 11 - 14 September 2008
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Public Spaces - Creating civilised spaces
18 August 2008 — As the Olympic Games reach a climax in Beijing, CABE is challenging every local authority across the country to create public spaces fit for 2012.
"2012 will be a massive test of the quality of our public space.
Not just in London, but right across the country when people gather in all the major civic spaces to watch and celebrate. - So are we ready?"
Standards for great public space against which local authorities can judge their parks and squares:
- An inclusive space: does everyone feel welcome and safe?
- A distinctive space: does the space contribute to local character?
- A healthy space: does the space encourage active lifestyles?
- A sustainable place: is there a long-term plan for effective management and maintenance?
- A green place: softer, greener, natural surfaces will adapt much better to climate change.
We agree that radical new thinking in urban design may point the way forward.
"The future of design should emphasise on people and environment and NOT on cars!"
- Comments to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council - Local Development Framework - Core Strategy – 2007/2008
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Consultation until 30 October 2008: Improving Local Accountability
7 August 2008 — Improving local accountability consultation is the first in a series of Communities in Control consultations flowing from the recent White Paper (July 2008). This consultation covers the implementation of the overview and scrutiny provisions in the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007. It seeks views on how to develop overview and scrutiny powers to hold local officers to account and how to facilitate the work of councillors.
WRITE to: localaccountability@communities.gsi.gov.uk
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White Paper: Communities in Control
First, the announcement of the plans for The Empowerment White Paper (5 March 2008),
followed by the Community Empowerment Bill (15 May 2008)
9 July 2008 — The White Paper "Communities in Control" is published !
Communities in control: real people, real power - The key barriers to greater participation include lack of interest or understanding about local governance; negative perceptions and lack of trust in public institutions; lack of awareness of how to get involved and inaccessible recruitment practices and scepticism about the difference participation will make.
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Heritage at Risk — One in Twelve heritage sites 'at high risk'
8 July 2008 — English Heritage has announced the completion of the first phase of Heritage at Risk, a register that Lord Bruce-Lockhart, its chairman, referred to as a Domesday Book of heritage sites. It covers almost 500,000 historic buildings, monuments, battlefields, shipwrecks and landscapes. "The first results of this new report reveal that overall, of the 70,000 protected heritage sites assessed so far, no fewer than one in 12 is at high risk of neglect or decay or inappropriate change," said Lord Sandy Bruce-Lockhart, the former leader of Kent County Council (1997-2005) and the former Chairman of the Local Government Association.
Tunbridge Wells Borough Council - Enhancement Projects / Heritage and Environment
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Open Air Theatre — at Trinity Gardens
5 July 2008 — "Twelfth Night" - Shakespeare’s classic comic tale - from Tuesday 15 July to Sunday 20 July, 8pm
(Sat and Su matinee 3pm)
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Parking Zone C - Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Centre (Culverden ward / partially Park)
4 July 2008 — On Friday 13 June 2008 public notices were placed in the Kent and Sussex Courier and in those roads affected by the proposed amendments. Following a three week support/objection period, the proposals shall be reviewed in light of any comments received and the Orders can be made and implemented in due course.
Explanatory Notes:
1.) "Part Two of this Order amends the existing no waiting 8am to 6pm restriction to include Sunday in those roads listed in the schedule."
2.) "This Order introduces limited waiting on a Sunday, reduces the timed restriction to between 8am and 5pm and introduces a residents parking only restriction between 5pm and 8pm.
- The inclusion of Part Five in article 14 means all residents in Zone C shall be eligible to purchase visitor's permits."
Town's Car Park Charges 2008/2009 implemented from 13 July 2008
In the evening, after 6pm (4pm on Su.), and during the night, until 8am (10am on Su.), the town's car parks are FREE !
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Trinity Theatre and Arts Centre
9 June 2008 — Trinity introduces 'Pay and Display' car parking (Mo - Sat 8am - 6pm).
The most important benefits of Trinity Garden (former burial ground/churchyard):
architecture, history, landscaping, wildlife, green open space, local outdoor amenity
for the Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Centre
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Love Where We Live - THE BIG CLEAN UP!
1 June 2008 — The "Love Where We Live" campaign is a campaign to celebrate community pride, embrace it and to grow it so that those who live here now and future generations can benefit. The campaign will launch with a "Big Clean Up" across the borough on Friday 6 June 2008, for which TWBC is encouraging borough residents to clean up areas where they live or where they feel need for it. — Love Where We Live - The Big Clean up!
CONTACT: streetscene@tunbridgewells.gov.uk
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Troubled of Tunbridge Wells?
26 May 2008 — "If there’s something that concerns or frustrates you, an event or an issue,
in fact anything that affects you as a resident in the borough then let TWBC's Overview & Scrutiny know and
the committees will consider starting a Scrutiny review to investigate further."
Overview and Scrutiny plays an important role in the efficient running of a Council. Its aim is to hold the executive to account, carry out policy reviews and engage with the public on issues of local concern.
TWBC Overview and Scrutiny function is carried out by three Select Committees, coordinated by a Management Group:
- Corporate Services Select Committee
- Environment, Safer and Stronger Communities Select Committee
- Local Economy and Housing Select Committee
RTW Town Forum submissions to Scrutiny Team / Overview & Scrutiny Committees
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Taxis at the end of York Road
15 June 2008 — The situation is calm at the moment.
29 May 2008 — . . . (TWBC) Licensing Team have a good working relationship with our Private Hire Operators, and by contacting them by letter, and follow up phone calls to the major operators, should stop Private Hire cars parking in York Road. — RB
16 May 2008 — The Licensing Team are aware of complaints regarding to the taxis at the end of York Road and are currently looking into the matter. — RB
14 May 2008 — FIVE taxis? . . . . . How about 13 on Saturday last, between 10.30 pm and 3.30 am, and TWO taxis waiting for the off at 5.00 am (among these, all numbers noted, the Town's Hackney Carriages, distinctive by the red light on top of the cab).
On Sunday last, 21 taxis came into, parked, and left York Road between 6.30 pm and midnight. All numbers recorded.
No, I did not sleep on Saturday. The night was very warm, and the constant door slamming, talking and laughing
(o.k. the drivers are entitled to laugh and talk), engines kept running when a driver of a cab/cabs decides to stop alongside his chums - usually two parked on Habitat's (double) yellow lines and one car parked on the side opposite (single yellow line), therefore leaving no room in the road - has a chat for 3 minutes, and goes on his way.
- Laughable, but simply not fair. Why York Road, Mr. Bullock? - York Road is a residential road. Your Hackney Carriages most certainly should not be parked here, so I am afraid your answer to Mr. Cassidy is incorrect.
Last night (Tuesday), before midnight, there were FIVE cars ready to roll!
It has got to stop. There is plenty of room in Calverley Road, outside Jaeger, the lighting shop and the pub. Here, there are no residents to disturb. — BC
9 May 2008 — My understanding of the legal position posed by your questions is as follows - driving on the pavement is a matter for the Police to enforce. Private Hire vehicles can park on any public roads whilst waiting for a booking from their operator however they must not ply for hire. — RB
16 April 2008 — It seems that Streamline Taxis have decided that York Road is their new parking space
as over the past few weeks as many as five taxis have been parked on the pavement by the Police parking bay.
This is always on a Friday and Saturday night. I presume this isn't legal? — CC
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New Community Empowerment Bill to harness petition power
15 May 2008 — Three new rights to right local wrongs (Communities Secretary Hazel Blears)
- A new right to ask for a stronger say on spending decisions that affect them or their communities.
- A new right to ensure councils consider the sale or transfer of under-used properties, lands or parks to local community groups, co-ops and social enterprises.
- A new right to force a debate on specific local issues onto the council agenda.
Hazel Blears also called for a stronger, more talented, and more diverse league of Councillors - what she described as a 'new generation of leaders' of all ages and disciplines to recruit to local Councils, and for employers to release more talent from the business world into councils.
What happened to the agendas of Culverden Councillors? Will Culverden Ward Councillors deliver their agendas?
 If elected I will . . . . . . — Councillors' Agendas since 2005
(Leonard Price, John Miller, Ronen Basu - Culverden; John Davies - Kent County Tunbridge Wells West
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New Disguisable Alternative to a Satellite Dish: — The Sqish
May 2008 — The Sqish can be aimed at mid and high powered satellites including Astra, Hotbird and Eurobird. It can be used to receive Sky and Freesat in the UK.
Reasons to use a Sqish:
· Discreet - extra discreet with 'sqishoflage' sticker
· Small - 48cm wide and 26cm high, 7cm deep
· Coastal towns - no rust!
· Areas sensitive to planning restrictions (minimise environmental impact)
· Conservation areas and listed buildings (subject to regulations)
· Mobile use - caravans, mobile homes, etc.
· Dish stigma - "don't want a dish!"
It can be camouflaged to help it blend into its surroundings with the addition of a 'sqishoflage' sticker created from a digital photo. Take a picture of the location where the Sqish will be sited and a UV-stable matt finish sticker will be provided.
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Next Local Elections (CULVERDEN ward) will be held on 1 May 2008
— Tony Benn (former Labour Member of Parliament) in SICKO
(Documentary Film 2007 - Michael Moore)
"Democracy is the most revolutionary thing in the world, far more revolutionary than socialist ideas or anybody else's idea. - If you have power you use it to meet the needs of you and your community. And this idea of choice which capitalism always talks about 'you got to have a choice' - choice depends on the freedom to choose and if you are shackled with debt you don't have a freedom to choose. People in debt become hopeless and hopelss people don't vote. See, they would say everyone should vote but I think if the poor, in Britain or the United States, turned out and voted for people representing their interests there would be a real democratic revolution. And so they don't want it to happen. So, keeping people hopeless and pessimistic I think there are two ways in which people are controlled:
- first of all, frighten people; - and secondly, demoralise them.
An educated, healthy and confident nation is harder to govern and I think there is an element in the thinking of some people 'we don't want people to be educated, healthy, and confident because they would get out of control.
The top 1% of the world's population own 80% of the world's wealth. It is incredible that people put up with it but they are poor; they are demoralised, they are frightened, and therefore they think perhaps the safest thing to do is take orders and hope for the best."
Corporate Peer Review - Tunbridge Wells Borough Council October 2007 - analysed:
"the peer review team identified that staff morale was low in some areas and we suggest that the council gives consideration to seeking out further opportunities."
What is the demoralising factor at the town hall? - But, do 'they' take orders?
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Front Gardens and Patios - RTW Town Centre Amenity
RTW Town Forum is seeking the prevention of recurrence of the conversion of front gardens into off road car parking spaces. The result is a gross deterioration in the appearance of the RTW Conservation Area and alters the character of the RTW Conservation Area beyond all recognition.
19 April 2008 — "Home buyers and sellers believe that a garden can add as much as 17 per cent to the value of a property, while nearly 3/4 of people said they would be instantly attracted to a property that had a well-tended front garden." — propertyfinder.com / kentnews.co.uk
Then, why does it appear that more and more front gardens / patios are lost in the town and every open space is used as a hard standing area for parking cars?
Look @ — e.g. Beulah Road, Boyne Park, Clanicarde Gardens, Claremont Road, Lonsdale Gardens, Mount Ephraim Road, Queens Road, St James Road, Upper Grosvenor Road, York Road
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Parking on Pavement
18 April 2008 — This isn't legal?
Parking on the pavement may also cause damage to the kerb, the pavement, or the services underneath. Repairing such damage can be costly and local authorities may face claims for compensation for injuries received resulting from damaged or defective pavements.
In some areas pavement parking is prohibited by a local Act of Parliament, and it may be prohibited
elsewhere in particular streets or parts of streets by traffic regulation orders. Enforcement may be a problem unless TWBC is able to take on the responsibility through the arrangements being developed under the Road Traffic Act 1991.
Various physical measures are however largely self-enforcing.
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Is this ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS in 2008? — Grot Spots revisited
10 April 2008 — RTW Town Forum Powerpoint Presentation:
Grot Spots in Royal Tunbridge Wells (Nov 2005, Oct 2006) and Highways Grots (March 2006, May 2007)
All pictures are examples only of the various topics:
dilapidated buildings, empty buildings, untidy land - sign clutter, real estate signs, town signs, road signs, direction signs (damaged, not maintained, dirty) - lampposts (defect, strapped), stumps - commercial refuse bins, litter, cigarette butts - bollards, info drums, railings, benches - graffiti - dog fouling - maintenance of pavements (tarmac, bricks, ATMs) - parking - front gardens, forecourts, patios
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Environs of Trinity - RTW Town Centre Amenity
9 April 2008 — Protection of Trinity Garden's lawn
The trend that every open space (with or without lawn) has to be used as a hard standing area for parking cars, must be reversed.
— Fixing bollards at Trinity Gardens — this is a start!
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Development Control Validation Checklist — TWBC Planning Services
03 April 2008 — The Validation Checklists and Advice Note have been amended to reflect many of the comments received during the consultion (18.02.08-28.03.08).
The Advice Note seeks to assist to ensure that planning applications contains all the necessary information and that TWBC can deal with them effectively and efficiently (prepared in conjunction with the Kent Development Control Officers Group).
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"Average traffic flows in the borough are about twice the national average".
(Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Strategic Plan 2008-2011)
28 March 2008 — One step further? - and what happens to the other issues?
Finally, the letter was posted to residents!
— The red tape is getting longer.
". . . the Traffic Regulation Orders will be advertised and any objections received be reported to the next meeting of the Joint Transportation Board but if no objections are received the order be made . . . "
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PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE OF THE TOWN AND THE BOROUGH
— Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Local Development Framework (LDF) - Core Strategy
— Will our input pass the 'pink blinders test'?
22 March 2008 — Submission to Core Strategy - third stage - 'Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment - Methodology'
In January 2008 - 'Preferred Options' was the second stage in the process of producing the Core Strategy
In March 2007 - 'Issues & Options' was the first stage in the process of producing the Core Strategy
which will set out how, where and when all types of development will take place up to 2026.
Royal Tunbridge Wells' new housing is mainly built on windfall sites (sites not identified in the Local Plan). Why is this trend continuing despite the Government calling for the opposite?
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Getting engaged - How to involve communities throughout the planning process
March 2008 — Councils should start early, keep communicating and ensure that as many people as possible feel able to make a difference to their local area.
Councils can do this by: developing an integrated approach - engaging early (under the new planning system communities must participate in the initial preparation of LDFs and at key stages throughout the production of plans; communities should also be involved during pre-application discussions on development proposals affecting their area.)
- building up communities to participate - providing independent advice and mediation - investing in broad community engagement - providing feedback - evaluating engagement (Nov 2007)
'til such a document is even accepted by our Local Authority
much more water needs to run down Royal Tunbridge Wells' "Mount Shabby"!
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The Empowerment White Paper
5 March 2008 — Communities Secretary Hazel Blears announced plans for a new White Paper, The Empowerment
White Paper, to be published in the Summer 2008, focused on empowering citizens. A new survey reveals that:
- 6 in 10 people do not feel they are given an adequate say on how local council services are run;
- more than 9 in 10 people believe accountability of councils (officers and councillors) could be improved;
- nearly 4 in 10 people do not feel councillors are representative of their communities
- 6 in 10 do not believe councillors adequately reflect their views.
The Empowerment White Paper, will aim to reverse this trend. Working with local councils and community organisations,
it will help to put more communities in control. Local people will have new opportunities to reconnect with their councils and to provide input to improve local services.
What happened to the Urban White Paper - 16.11.2000 ?
What happened to the order of the Code of Conduct for Local Councillors - 3 May 2007 ?
In Tunbridge Wells only effective 1 October 2007, the Borough Council resolved to have addtional clauses which reduce the power of this document —
Code of Conduct for Local Councillors - TWBC addtional clauses
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Former Cinema and Ritz Building, Mt Pleasant/Church Rd
Grot Spot Elimination - Competition Winner:
27 February 2008 — News
Plans/photos/links/previously approved scheme:
The Competition and Supporting Information
Panter Hudspith Architects are the winner of the competition to provide the concept designs.
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How to deal with 'ProblemNeighbours' . . .
19 February 2008 — Very comprehensive public interest website - www.problemneighbours.co.uk - focusing on coping with noisy, aggressive or inconsiderate neighbours (Be a Good Neighbour, Respecting Neighbours, Neighbour Issues, Resolving Issues, Rights, Taking Action).
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Environs of Trinity - Town Centre Amenity
15 February 2008 — The contribution of urban green space to quality of life.
"Our open spaces, parks, streets, town centres, and village greens are great assets; they form the heart of our communities; they should be places where we can all be proud and confident."
(Government acts to cut environmental crime - July 2004)
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Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Centre Health Indicator Report
Ten key indicators are used to assess the health of the town centres of Royal Tunbridge Wells:
evening economy floorspace, retail floorspace, vacant retail property, footfall, retail yields, retail rents, retail sector employment, crime, transport and air quality.
Town Centre Health Indicator reports are produced each year for 17 town centres in Kent. The latest reports have been produced in February 2008 (data/information of 2001-2007). The report will be updated in January 2009.
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Summerhill House - 73 London Road
28 January 2008 — Finally, some progress to bring the empty house into use,
one of the Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Forum's Top Grot Spots!
Part change of use, conversion and alterations to form seven apartments comprising one bedsit, five one-bed and one two-bed apartments, alterations to existing cottage at rear, and associated access and parking
Applicant: Sion Holdings Ltd - Agent: Broadlands, Royal Tunbridge Wells
Neighbours can comment until 27.02.2008 (8 dwellings, 6 parking - 0 for visitors)!
— This proves that the Council still has to go a long way to become credible regarding involvement with third parties at very early stages! (ie neighbourhood & Town Forum).
- And? Has the impact on the community's infrastructure been considered?
End of March 2008 — Bob Dunn gives the go-ahead for 8 dwellings ignoring neighbours comments to lower the density.
10 April 2008 — Jim Kehoe, Head of Planning: "we did have pre application discussions with the applicants. The current National and Local Development Plan policies point us towards maximum car park standards rather than minimum, so is why that we did not have a reason for refusal on those grounds."
Where could "the scheme for the provision of Youth and Adult Recreation Open Space" go, when the area surrounding the house (former front and rear garden) "shall be retained as vehicle parking spaces for the use of the occupiers and visitors" ?
Information on an empty property in the town Royal Tunbridge Wells can be e-mailed to: housing@tunbridgewells.gov.uk
Report an Empty Property - The Kent Empty Property Initiative: www.no-use-empty.org
Around 1,400 homes in West Kent are known to be empty for six months or longer
(about 600 across Sevenoaks district, 460 in Tunbridge Wells borough, and 288 in Tonbridge and Malling)
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Trinity Theatre and Arts Centre
1 February 2008 — The Arts Council have confirmed today that they have cut their entire £77k grant funding to Trinity with effect from 1 April 2008.
And what now? — Believe it or not Trinity had recently a petition going on to gain public support . . . but found it obviously too tedious to gain some sympathy in their immediate neighbourhood !
Trinity still gets £90k - Tunbridge Wells Borough Council's grant 2008/09
The most important benefits of Trinity Garden (burial ground/churchyard):
architecture, history, landscaping, wildlife, green open space, local outdoor amenity
for the Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Centre
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Announcement of Tunbridge Wells Urban Neighbourhood Policing Team
28 January 2008 — Police Constables (PC) and Police Community Support Officers (PCSO)
Town Centre Royal Tunbridge Wells: PC Paul Ayling, PC Phil Smith, PCSO Ashleigh Allen
Culverden Ward: PCSO Claire Cockburn, PCSO Nick Anderson / Park Ward: PCSO Laura Bryant
Tel: 01892 502104, e-mail: tunbridgewellsnhp@kent.pnn.police.uk
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The new Community Infrastructure Levy
24 January 2008 — Under the current system, only 14 per cent of all residential planning permissions make any contribution to the cost of supporting infrastructure, and these generally cover the largest schemes.
However, even minor developments generate a need for infrastructure and services in an area.
TWBC's Core Strategy (Core Policy 1 - Development in Royal Tunbridge Wells) quotes under 7.9:
Historically (over the period 2001-2007), some 74% of the Borough's new housing has been built at Royal Tunbridge Wells/Southborough. The majority has been on unidentified previously developed land and through maximising potential of allocated brownfield sites. Change of use, or redevelopment, of commercial premises in Royal Tunbridge Wells and Southborough have accounted for the largest proportion of new dwellings compared with other sources.
(e.g. Local Plan policies - housing allocations)
Is this admitting the mistakes of the past?
Notoriously TWBC relied (against government advice) on windfall sites in RTW to fulfill their targets,
seemingly without considering the impact on infrastructure.
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On the other side of Church Road - "Campaign to save theatre"
The impact of the Mega Grot Spot CINEMA site is showing its devastating and demoralising effect on its surrounding.
22 January 2008 — Local residents comment on facebook.com:
"When I look out of the window Trinity is every time in my view.
If those involved in its running and functioning would see what I sometimes do, they might understand better that it is hard to see dedication by staff and volunteers to keep this place looking like 'prime' and a show case for the Community and the town centre! . . . and that is only about 1/3 of the story!!"
"No surprise for the neighbourhood as we believe staff and volunteers seem not
really to care about the appearance of the grade I listed building and its environments."
"What is wrong with the Marketing of Trinity Theatre and Arts Centre?
Look at the display board right in front of the Town Hall, where their events are advertised (with the Assembly Hall)!
"Just to put things into proportion, Arts Council England is axing subsidies to 194 organisations, around 20% of the total that it funds. - And more perspective, it seems that total funding nationally is going up, according to the Financial Times (Sunday 20.01.2008)."
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Former Cinema Site
CIRCUS OF HORROR
on Church Road/Mount Pleasant, Royal Tunbridge Wells
22 January 2008 —
How much is the impact on the area?
When will be Grot Spot Demolition?
When will it happen?
The Interior - Photos 07.03.2006
The cinema is empty for ,
- since December 2000.
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Reinstating Neighbourhood Values
18 January 2008 — Cotswold Outdoor / Ismail (Cafe) / UK Cycles
is 'part of our landscape' since 30 November 2007
We have assurance of Kevin Allpress, the store manager, that:
Greensolve will collect rubbish at 12 noon on Wednesdays;
warehouse deliveries will be between 8am and 1pm.
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Proposed extension of Alcohol Control Zones in Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Centre
14 January 2008 — A review to expand the current zones (2006/2007) was conducted at the request of Tunbridge Wells Community Safety Partnership, following reports of alcohol-related anti-social behaviour outside the existing areas. The proposals drawn up encompass an extra 79 roads in and around the town centre as well as 16 car parks, 3 recreation grounds, Royal Victoria Place Shopping Centre, The Corn Exchange (Pantiles), Woodbury Park Cemetery and additional areas on the Tunbridge Wells Common.
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PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE OF THE TOWN AND THE BOROUGH
— Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Local Development Framework (LDF) - Core Strategy
Online Consultation
— Will our input be taken into consideration?
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Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy
TWBC's Private Sector Housing and Initiatives Team (PSH&I Team) is responsible for enforcing a wide range of statutory provisions relating to housing conditions affecting the health and safety of occupants, visitors and occupants, visitors and occupants of adjoining properties.
9 January 2008 — The PSH&I Team will submit to TWBC's Cabinet its report which seeks approval of the draft Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy for public consultation with stakeholders and the wider community.
 Draft Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy
The differences between the Government and local landlords start with their understanding of why housing markets fail? The Government's 'advisory' Green Paper that preceded
the 2004 Housing Act highlighted, 'unscrupulous landlords (were) often linked to criminal activities such as housing benefit fraud, drug dealing and prostitution. These activities are
destabilising communities, creating a range of social and economic problems, and seriously hampering efforts at regeneration.' (NFRL - Successful Renting)
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WHAT ELSE WAS OF CONCERN ? — Jan 2005 - Dec 2007
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Recent Improvements in the Neighbourhood
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JOINT TRANSPORTATION BOARD - 21 JANUARY 2008
