Plans for a cultural hub in the centre of Tunbridge Wells have been set back after a bid to receive funding was unsuccessful.

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and Kent County Council applied to the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for funds to develop detailed plans for a heritage, cultural and learning hub in the town centre.

The application was submitted in April 2015, but was beaten by other projects the HLF looked at.

However, a council spokesman said the organisation gave positive feedback and encouraged members to resubmit.

The borough council and Kent County Council are working in partnership to deliver the project that brings together – in one organisation and one service – the museum, art gallery, library and adult education.

Councillor Jane March, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s portfolio holder for tourism, leisure and economic development, said: "Naturally I am very disappointed that we weren’t successful at Stage 1.

"The good news is that HLF do think our bid has merit but, on the day, other projects were considered to be more immediate priorities. Using the feedback we have been given, we will review and resubmit at the next opportunity."

Mike Hill, KCC’s cabinet member for community services, said: "Despite this initial disappointment, the feedback we have received makes us optimistic that we may be successful in the future.

"We believe in this project and hope that, if we get the lottery funding we have requested, we will be able to create a nationally significant centre promoting culture and the arts in this part of Kent."

The council said hub is viewed as something which will strengthen the cultural, heritage and leisure offer of the town centre and wider borough.