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First look at Primark store to open in former BHS at Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells

Fresh plans and CGIs have revealed the look of a highly-anticipated Primark store.

The multinational fashion and beauty retailer is set to open a branch in the former BHS at Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells.

Fresh plans for the shopfront of a new Primark branch have been submitted. Picture: Prosper/TWBC
Fresh plans for the shopfront of a new Primark branch have been submitted. Picture: Prosper/TWBC

Plans have been submitted to the council to modernise the inside of the unit, as well as upgrade the shopfront and signage.

The mid-to-late 20th-century building is located on Calverley Road, but can also be accessed via the ground and first-floor levels within the mall.

If approved, its entrance is set to have the familiar blue and white signage installed, along with two manual and one automatic glass door.

Further signage has been requested to be placed above the entrance to the centre on Grosvenor Road.

Flooring inside will be replaced but all existing brickwork and high-level glazed windows will be retained.

The building on Calverley Road in Tunbridge Wells was once home to BHS
The building on Calverley Road in Tunbridge Wells was once home to BHS

In the design and access document, it says: “The proposed shopfront aims to enhance the high street with a high-quality, modern frontage, reinforcing the store’s role as a key retail destination within the town centre.

“The additional works are proposed as essentials for the successful operation of the Primark store, ensuring it meets contemporary retail standards while integrating within the existing streetscape.”

The building was previously rented out by BHS until the retailer ceased trading in 2016.

Since then, it has had several short-term tenants and periods of vacancy.

Rumours of a Primark store first circulated in June, when the closure of Homeland prompted a discussion online of what would take its place.

The company also wants signage to be added to the entrance of Royal Victoria Place. Picture: Prosper/TWBC
The company also wants signage to be added to the entrance of Royal Victoria Place. Picture: Prosper/TWBC

Many shoppers claimed that a branch had always been destined for the town, but had to wait until the current lease was up.

It was finally announced in August that the company would be opening its first-ever store in the centre.

At the time, Cllr Justine Rutland, chairwoman of the investment advisory panel and cabinet member for economic development, said: “It was really important to us to see the former BHS unit filled with a store that many residents, especially young people, have been asking for, and which will complement existing businesses.”

The design and access document says the changes will help “increase footfall” along the high street.

“These upgrades will not only enhance the unit’s aesthetic and functional appeal but also contribute positively to the overall retail experience within the shopping centre," it goes on to say.

It will be the first-ever Primark store in the town
It will be the first-ever Primark store in the town

“The applicant is committed to delivering a high-quality, inclusive design, utilizing premium materials that align with the surrounding context.”

To see more planning applications and other public notices for your area, click here.

The plans, which were validated at the beginning of the month, are currently awaiting a decision from the council.

It is not yet known when the branch will be opening to the public.

Primark has been contacted for more information.

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