The Planning Committee of Tunbridge Wells Council met on Wednesday 15 April 2026, approving four planning applications and one advertisement consent. The committee granted permission for a new dwelling in Langton Green, alterations to Longford House in Royal Tunbridge Wells, a change of use and associated works at The Pantiles, and advertisement consent for signage at 27 The Pantiles.

New Dwelling Approved at 23 Newlands, Langton Green

Permission was granted for the erection of a new dwelling and associated landscaping works at 23 Newlands, Langton Green. The committee heard objections from local residents, including David Bramble, who raised concerns about the impact of the development on neighbouring amenity, particularly the overbearing nature and loss of outlook for residents at 1 Mercer's. Charlie Cadswell, speaking on behalf of the applicant, highlighted that the revised proposal had addressed these concerns through amendments such as moving the building further from boundaries and lowering the eaves height. Councillor Matthew Sankey, the ward member, had called in the application due to concerns about overbearing impact. The committee noted that the site was within the limits to built development and that the proposed dwelling was 1.5 storeys, a reduction from previous refused applications. Councillor Hugo Pound proposed approval, seconded by Councillor David Pitts, with an additional condition requiring details of the proposed chimney to be submitted for agreement before works commence. This was unanimously approved.

Alterations to Longford House Approved

The committee approved alterations to Longford House, 19 Mount Ephraim Road, which included the change of use from offices to a healthcare establishment (Use Class C2), the construction of a mansard roof extension, courtyard infill, and the replacement and enclosure of external fire escapes. The application was a revised version of a previously approved scheme, with the main changes being the addition of the mansard roof and enclosure of fire escapes. Concerns were raised by TWBC Conservation and Urban Design regarding the mansard roof's height and the use of zinc standing seam, stating it would have a less than substantial harm to the conservation area. However, officers noted that the visibility of the mansard roof from the public realm was limited. Councillor Ellen Neville proposed approval, seconded by Councillor Lynne Darrah, with an informative added to the conditions recommending that where possible, access be gained to Lime Hill Road properties to consider noise impact on residents. This was unanimously approved.

Flexible Use Approved for Properties on The Pantiles

Permission was granted for a change of use from office, retail, and food and drink to Use Class E (commercial, business and service) and Use Class F1A (education) for several properties on The Pantiles: Foundation, Dowding, Frant and Royal Victoria Houses, 31a, 31b & 51 The Pantiles, The Corn Exchange (ground floor only), and Sussex Mews. The application also included the additional use of the ground and basement floors of 31b as a hairdresser and the construction of glazed canopies. The proposal was referred to committee as Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC) is the freehold landowner. Officers confirmed that no external changes were proposed to the buildings themselves and that the addition of F1A (education) use would enhance the range of facilities available. Councillor Hugo Pound proposed approval, seconded by Councillor Don Kent, which was unanimously approved.

Advertisement Consent Granted for 27 The Pantiles

Advertisement consent was granted for a retrospective hanging sign and display board at 27 The Pantiles. The application was brought to committee because TWBC is the freehold landowner. Concerns were raised by Councillor Don Kent regarding the A-frame board potentially being a hazard for visually impaired individuals. Officers clarified that while A-frame boards are common in The Pantiles, an informative would be added to the consent stating that the A-frame should be placed no further than one metre from the front of the premises to avoid obstructing the public walkway. Councillor Ellen Neville proposed approval, seconded by Councillor David Pitts, which was unanimously approved.

Listed Building Consent Granted for Fascia Sign at 27 The Pantiles

Listed building consent was granted for a fascia sign at 27 The Pantiles. This application was considered alongside the advertisement consent for the same property. TWBC Conservation and Urban Design noted that while hand-painted lettering would have been preferred, the works did not warrant refusal on heritage grounds as they did not impact the historic fabric of the building. Councillor Ellen Neville proposed approval, seconded by Councillor David Pitts, which was unanimously approved.