More than 1,400 people took part in a public survey to gather views on the Tonbridge town centre plan to regenerate the area east of the town’s High Street.
Feedback from the survey, which ran from 14 July to 31 August 2025, showed strong support for the proposals being led by Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council working with a range of partners. The survey results and next steps for the plan are due to be presented to the council’s cabinet on 14 October.
Overall, 79 per cent of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the regeneration proposals would benefit Tonbridge.
Preferences for specific sites were also clear. A large majority (91 per cent) favoured the GP surgery option over residential development at Sovereign Way East car park, while residential development was preferred for Vale Road car park. Angel West car park was strongly supported to remain as parking, and mixed-use development was the most popular option for the old Angel Centre site, with parking and entertainment also receiving notable support.
There was also significant enthusiasm for the proposed riverside park, with 90 per cent in favour of enhancing green space and leisure opportunities in the town centre.
The development plans are taking place in tandem with the planned refurbishment and extension of Sainsbury’s, supporting wider regeneration and investment in the town centre.
Amendments will now be made to the masterplan to clarify parking arrangements and the retention of Angel West car park. Across the development area, majority of parking will be retained, with further surveys planned to monitor usage and forecast future demand and where possible opportunities to increase provision will be explored
Wider development will be phased over a number of years with priority being given to a replacement Angel Leisure Centre, planned for completion in 2028.
All development activities will be subject to council approval and annual review by the Tonbridge Town Centre Programme Board.
Councillor Adem Mehmet, Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Regeneration, said: “We are delighted with the level of community engagement and the clear majority support for the plans to help regenerate the area east of Tonbridge High Street.
The feedback from residents and local groups, including the Civic and Historical societies, will help us deliver investment, jobs and increased footfall in Tonbridge, supporting businesses and providing new services for residents. We are committed to working in partnership with the community to ensure our town centre thrives for years to come.”
Latest project updates can be found by visiting the Tonbridge and Malling Borough website - https://www.tmbc.gov.uk/tonbridge