Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: September 2, 2025

Purpose:

Content: Consideration was given to the proposal outlined in the external consultant’s design report (attached at Annex 1) which was to progress the tendering and construction of a high-quality lighting scheme between Town Lock and Vale Road/Cannon Lane in Tonbridge.   Due regard was given to the financial and value for money considerations, the assessment of risk and the legal implications detailed in the report.  Members noted a revised budget for the project due to improved accuracy following stage 4 design.  It was also felt prudent to allow a contingency sum for any issues arising from an ecological appraisal and any further comments from external bodies including the Environment Agency and Kent Wildlife Trust.   On the grounds of improving safety along the footpath and that the project could be delivered in full via developer contributions with no funding needed from the Borough Council, Cllr Keers proposed, Cllr Mehmet seconded and Cabinet   RESOLVED:  That   (1)            the project for riverside lighting between Vale Road and the northwest boundary of the former gasholder site be progressed through the tender and construction stages;   (2)            delegated authority be granted to the Director of Street Scene, Leisure and Technical Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Communities and local Ward Members, to amend the design to take into account any findings from the ecological appraisal and any further comments from external bodies including the Environment Agency and Kent Wildlife Trust;  and   (3)            a project budget as set out in the report and funded in full via developer contributions, be approved