Plans to replace the Angel Centre in Tonbridge hit a key milestone today with publication of initial proposals for the facilities that could be on offer.
Kicking off the early design phase, Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, which is leading the project, has launched a dedicated website and public survey to gather views on potential sport, leisure and community uses.
Key features of the new multi-purpose centre on the Sovereign Way Mid car park site could include an expanded gym, purpose-built spin and dance studios, versatile meeting rooms for community use, plus an on-site café and a soft play area. Plans also include a zone with specially designed exercise equipment for those with limited mobility, long-term conditions or undergoing rehabilitation.
Cllr Adem Mehmet, who represents the Trench ward in Tonbridge and is cabinet lead for infrastructure and Tonbridge regeneration, said: “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for our town to create a modern, accessible and environmentally responsible leisure centre that meets the needs of our growing community. We want residents to share their views about what facilities they’d like and be able to input into the design process.”
Unlike the existing Angel Centre, the new building will be highly energy efficient. It will have solar panels and air source heat pumps to reduce both carbon emissions and running costs.
Cllr Mehmet added: “The existing Angel Centre is reaching the end of its operational life and doesn’t provide the modern facilities residents expect from a leisure centre. This will be a brand new, sustainable building specifically designed to deliver a wide range of upgraded sports, community and leisure facilities for the whole town.
“As a Tonbridge resident myself, I’m excited to see these plans take shape and provide a much-needed boost to the area. Please get involved, fill in the survey, and let us know what you’d like to see at the new Angel Centre.”
The current budget for the new centre is set to be in the region of £19 million, down from initial estimates of around £23 million. It will be funded by a combination of council reserves, borrowing and a contribution from tmactive, the council’s leisure trust partner.
The current centre will remain open until the new building is due to be completed in 2028. It’s expected that the previous site will be redeveloped as part of wider regeneration plans for the area east of Tonbridge High Street.
The new centre will continue to be operated by tmactive, ensuring continuity of service for current Angel Centre users.
Read more about the Angel Centre proposals and complete the survey.