A start date has been confirmed for the construction of 166 homes at a former cinema.

It is now full steam ahead after the planning application for the site of the derelict ABC cinema in Tunbridge Wells was approved.

It was first acquired in December 2021 by Retirement Villages Group (RVG), which is owned by AXA IM Real Assets.

Originally home to the popular cinema, the site was later demolished and left neglected for more than 20 years.

RVG aimed to invest £72million in a “later-living community” – which would completely transform the plot of land.

They say the development would "set the standards for sustainable living and reflect the local heritage."

Local residents were invited along to a three-day public exhibition at the Trinity Theatre in April last year, where they could view the proposals and give feedback.

A planning application was then submitted in August last year, after the designs were sent to the council.

The plot, facing Mount Pleasant Road, will become an eight-storey retirement village, with a total of 166 homes.

It will also have a café, outdoor space, hydrotherapy pool, spa and gym – available to both residents and the public.

A number of shops will be on the ground floor, which will face out onto Mount Pleasant Road.

Plans were finally given the green light on Thursday, January 5, with RVG now confirming construction will start on-site next year.

A spokesman from the company said: “We are excited to be making the final tweaks to our plans before getting underway with construction in early 2024.

“Forming part of our new ‘Thrive Living’ collection, our plans will introduce a vibrant and connected community for people over 65 – with attractive spaces and facilities open to the wider public on this long-neglected site.

“The small adjustments to our scheme allow for an additional apartment and minor changes to the external finish/detailing.

“We’re already preparing exciting plans for community artwork to be installed on our site hoardings, in anticipation of construction beginning next year.

“These will celebrate the older generation in Tunbridge Wells through the eyes of young people, as we start positive conversations about ageing.”