Tunbridge Wells Borough Council to launch public consultation to discuss master plan of potential changes to the town
Published: 17:00, 18 February 2015
Updated: 17:39, 18 February 2015
The fledgling blueprints of a major Tunbridge Wells revamp will be released for public consultation next month.
Although a long way from becoming reality, a new town square could be created between Civic Way and Mount Pleasant.
The information comes from a report brought before the borough council’s cabinet on Thursday.
Councillors voted in favour of the report, which seeks to make the town more attractive and less congested.
A proposed masterplan has come up with suggestions for 16 different sites across the town centre.
Big changes could include a facelift for George Square and Mount Pleasant, which could also see a plaza created.
Improvements for 13 other locations are also discussed.
No funding has yet been secured for any of the schemes and it could be some time before any come into fruition.
Clllr Paul Barrington-King, cabinet member with responsibility for sustainability, said: “Having a framework for how we want the town to look means we can retain key features and at the same time look to the future and how things can be improved.
Well designed spaces can encourage a greater sense of community and pride of place. They can help to improve accessibility for the less able and alleviate crime and the fear of crime.
“Evidence suggests that investing in good quality spaces prove to be cost effective.
"Great spaces create a positive image for a town, they encourage visitors and provide economic benefits such as through attracting business investment and through enhancing property values.”
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Kent Messenger reporter