A consultation about the future uses of Tonbridge Castle has opened today
Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council is inviting views from the public on the future use of its iconic attraction, Tonbridge Castle. The consultation opens on 1 April 2022 and asks whether the council could be putting the castle to better or different uses in the future.
The castle bordering the River Medway dates from the 13th century, and is popular with visitors and schools, while the grounds play host to variety of events from outdoor cinema to food and drink festivals and is a popular wedding venue.
The aim of the consultation is to better understand the needs of the visitors, community, and local businesses to ensure that they are involved in the decisions that affect this community asset. The consultation will run until 31 July 2022.
The review of Tonbridge Castle will be run in three stages, from the consultation in April through to the implementation from July 2024 of the plans, which will be agreed during 2023.
Cllrs Des Keers, TMBC’s Cabinet member for community services, said: ‘This consultation is a really important opportunity for us to understand the views of all people who use any part of Tonbridge Castle Estate, the general public, organisations, groups and potential future users of the castle and grounds.
‘We hope that many people will take part in the consultation and help us to agree plans for the future of the castle that will enhance and safeguard its use, as well as being ever mindful of the impact on the local environment.’