Content

Consideration was given to the Masterplan
Framework and Viability reports that were the culmination of the
East of High Street (EOHS) Masterplan exercise that had been
carried out by consultants Mace, Architects Periscope and
Commercial Property Specialist Vail Williams since December
2024.  The consultants had presented a
high-level illustrative masterplan and spatial development
proposals including viability and delivery analysis, to address
housing and employment growth needs.
 
It was proposed that a public engagement
exercise be undertaken on the Masterplan Framework, informed by
feedback from the Programme Board.  The
consultation would run digitally for six weeks from mid-July,
supplemented by information at key town centre locations and via
social media to ensure broad community access.  Over the summer, further work would develop
delivery routes and detail for Member consideration, including
funding and procurement options.  The
viability report highlighted current market challenges but noted
that conditions might change.  Not
undertaking public engagement or further delivery analysis over the
summer were outlined as alternative options, but both were
considered less effective for stakeholder involvement and strategic
planning.
 
Due regard was given to the financial and
value for money considerations, the assessment of risks detailed in
the report.
 
To ensure that the work was shared with local
stakeholders to allow them to understand the process and the
potentially deliverable options, as well as being able to comment
on these proposals and raise issues and questions, Cllr Keers
proposed, seconded by Boughton and Cabinet
 
RESOLVED: That
 
(1)       
the site development and delivery options in the Tonbridge Town
Centre East of High Street Masterplan Framework Report at Annex 1,
be noted and Members be invited to comment on these ahead of a more
detailed report in October 2025;
 
(2)       
the Tonbridge Town Centre East of High Street Masterplan Viability
Report at Annex 2 (Part 2 – Private) and the Masterplan
Viability Report Appendix 2 Market Insight & Benchmarking at
Annex 3 (Part 2 – Private) be noted; and

 
(3)       
the recommendation of the Tonbridge Town Centre Programme Board in
the meeting on 23 May 2025 at Annex 4 (Part 2 – Private) that
a public engagement exercise be undertaken on the Masterplan
Framework document, based on the views expressed by the Programme
Board, be supported.