The Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Full Council meeting on 22 April 2026 saw the approval of a new Household Recycling, Waste Collection and Street Cleansing Contract, and the adoption of the Tunbridge Wells Community Safety Partnership Plan for 2026-27. Councillors also debated and passed a motion opposing the removal of planning call-in powers and discussed the condition of The Pantiles Colonnade.

Household Recycling, Waste Collection and Street Cleansing Contract Award

The council awarded a new 12-year contract for household recycling, waste collection, and street cleansing services to Bidder A , identified in an exempt appendix. This decision was made in partnership with Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council as part of the South West Kent Waste Partnership. The contract, which will commence on 1 April 2027 and run until 31 March 2039, aims to improve service delivery, meet customer expectations, enhance recycling performance, and comply with forthcoming legislation such as Simpler Recycling, Extended Producer Responsibility, and the Deposit Return Scheme. Authority was delegated to various officers to finalise contract details, including potential vehicle financing options and the implementation of an open-book approach to financial management. Councillor Rob Wormington, Cabinet Member for Environment and Sustainability, thanked officers for their work on this complex procurement.

Tunbridge Wells Community Safety Partnership Plan 2026-27

The council approved the Tunbridge Wells Community Safety Partnership Plan for 2026-27. Councillor Corinna Keefe, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, presented the plan, which outlines five key priorities: domestic abuse, anti-social behaviour and business-related crime, substance misuse, road safety, and violence against women and girls (VAWG). The plan details actions such as promoting support schemes for domestic abuse survivors, using CCTV and diversionary activities to tackle anti-social behaviour, improving signposting for support services, educating young people on road safety, and engaging with local businesses to enhance the night-time economy. The plan was developed through a collaborative process involving various local partners, including Kent County Council, Kent Police, and the Probation Service. Councillor Matthew Sankey commended the work of the Community Safety Unit, and Councillor Hugo Pound, on behalf of the Labour Group, expressed support for the recommendations.

Motion on the Condition of The Pantiles Colonnade

A motion brought forward by Councillor Hugo Pound, and seconded by Councillor Justine Rutland, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Deputy Leader, called for the council to facilitate dialogue between stakeholders regarding the maintenance and renovation of The Pantiles Colonnade. The motion highlighted the Colonnade's significance as a heritage asset and expressed concern over its deteriorating condition, citing examples such as water ingress and the use of temporary supports. Councillor Pound urged for a specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound (SMART) maintenance and renovation plan. Councillor Matt Lowe, Cabinet Member for Planning, acknowledged the ongoing discussions with the owners, Target Follow, regarding repairs and expressed support for the motion. Councillor Matthew Sankey, who declared an interest as a leaseholder on The Pantiles, noted that a system of service charges and lease obligations already exists for maintenance, and questioned the necessity of the motion, though he supported continued engagement. The motion was carried with one abstention from Councillor Sankey.

Motion Opposing the Removal of Planning Call-In Powers

The council unanimously passed a motion, introduced by Councillor Thomas Mobbs and seconded by Councillor David Hayward, opposing the government's proposals to restrict or remove planning call-in powers. The motion argues that these powers are vital for local democratic oversight, transparency, and accountability in the planning process, particularly for residents in rural areas. Councillor Mobbs, supported by several other councillors including Councillor Hugh Patterson and Councillor David Knight, emphasised that the removal of these powers would undermine local democracy and reduce the ability of elected members to scrutinise planning applications where there is legitimate public interest. The council resolved to formally oppose any such proposals, write to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, and urge the government to retain these powers.

Other Announcements and Procedural Matters

The meeting began with apologies for absence and the approval of the minutes from the previous meeting. The Mayor announced the passing of Mrs June Bridgman, CB, a significant contributor to the borough, and a minute's silence was held in her memory. The Mayor also thanked councillors who were not standing for re-election. Updates were provided on various strategic plan projects, including the Hawkenbury Hub, improvements to leisure centres, and the RVP redevelopment. Councillor Corinna Keefe, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, provided updates on affordable housing acquisitions and youth hubs. Councillor David Knight asked a question regarding the timeframe for complying with a Planning Inspector's ruling on an illegal development. Councillor Jayne Sharratt inquired about the council running creative and leisure adult courses at The Amelia.

The council also appointed Parish Councillor Paul Currie as a Parish Representative to the Audit and Governance Committee for a four-year term.

The meeting concluded with the authorisation of the common seal of the council and the noting of the date of the next meeting.