Tonbridge and Malling’s local economy is set to benefit from a £1 million cash injection following approval of a scheme to help deliver a raft of investments.
The borough council’s cabinet [30 June 2025] gave the green light to funding projects that will see support for small businesses, town centre regeneration, tourism and technology to cut carbon emissions.
Investment in boosting the local economy is one of the council’s four strategic priorities along with delivering effective services, improving housing and safeguarding the environment.
The Shared Growth Fund, which is expected to total around £1.125 million by the end of 2025/26 will be used to ensure the future of ongoing projects plus a range of new initiatives. These include:
- Green business grants - helping local businesses decarbonise through measures such as solar panels, electric vehicle charging points, and energy-efficient upgrades
- Tonbridge regeneration - supporting existing commitments including new homes, retail and health facilities plus improved riverside access and lighting
- Carbon reduction at Larkfield Leisure Centre - green energy investment in solar, heat pumps and other initiatives to cut emissions
- Tourism promotion, including support for Tonbridge Castle and wider borough attractions
- Exploiting opportunities for further funding – support for the council’s economic development team to oversee delivery of schemes and provide resources to develop future grant applications
The funding has been allocated to Tonbridge and Malling via a Kent-wide scheme which sees a portion of business rates income shared among councils to invest locally.
Matt Boughton, Leader of Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, said: “A thriving local economy is crucial to the overall success of our borough as a great place to live and work. That’s why we’ve put supporting business, creating opportunities and investing in technology at the heart of our priorities.
“Securing this funding is a big win for our borough and one which will provide a major boost to our ambitions to see the benefits of economic growth felt across our towns and villages.”