Thank you to everyone who took part in the latest round of engagement on the updated designs for a new cinema and improved retail, leisure and community facilities at Royal Victoria Place (RVP). These designs reflect two years of work between the Council, the design team and feedback from earlier engagement.

More than 8,000 people participated across the three rounds of engagement, generating over 3,500 pieces of feedback. In the most recent phase, more than 600 people attended public events held between 11 and 23 March. A total of 215 feedback forms were submitted, with over 70% of respondents expressing support for the designs, recognising their importance in revitalising RVP.

It was insightful to speak with so many supporters of the Victoria Snooker Centre, as well as its owners, and to hear how important it is to its members. We are committed to keeping those conversations going and will do our best to work with the centre to explore options for alternative premises in the town centre so that it can continue its activities.

We have also received helpful feedback regarding the heritage of some buildings that may be affected by the designs. This input is being carefully considered as we review the details of the designs.

It is gratifying to see such strong enthusiasm for the regeneration of RVP, and we remain committed to delivering a scheme that revives such an important part of the town.

Welcome to the engagement website for the future of Royal Victoria Place

The updated designs for Royal Victoria Place will be presented as part of a last round of public engagement running from 12 – 23 March, ahead of the submission of a planning application.

During this period, you will be able to explore the updated designs and new imagery, including:

A boutique cinema and new leisure spaces at Ely Court

A revitalised Palm Court, featuring improved retail, food and beverage and welcoming community leisure space

These updated designs represent the culmination of two years of collaboration between the Council, its design team and and what we have heard from previous engagement. As the town centre homes at Market Square will now progress as a separate phase, this engagement gives you the chance to focus on the exciting improvements coming forward for the main centre.

Full designs are available to view online when the engagement starts on Thursday 12 March, or attend one of the engagement events listed below.

Visit the Public Exhibition

Exhibition dates

Meet the project team, explore the designs in detail, and share your feedback and support in person. Unit 33, Upper Mall (between iStore and Kent Relief, a few doors down from Primark)

Friday

13 March

2pm – 5pm

Saturday

14 March

10am – 2pm

Saturday

21 March

10am – 2pm

The Designs

Download the exhibition boards

Exhibition Boards: Project Team Presentation

Your input matters

Complete the comment form

Thank you for your engagement in the future of RVP. Your voice can make a real difference, so please continue to share your comments both now and via the formal planning process once the planning application has been submitted.