Planning application to be submitted for proposals to improve Palm Court.
Certificate of Immunity from Listing application to support delivery of a new cinema at Ely Court.
Following three rounds of extensive public engagement, which saw more than 8,000 people take part and over 3,500 pieces of feedback submitted, the next phase of transformation at Royal Victoria Place has been unveiled. This positive response highlights strong local support to move the proposals forward at pace. Crucially, this input has helped shape a bold and ambitious vision for Royal Victoria Place – one that reflects the aspirations, needs and priorities of the Tunbridge Wells community.
Plans for the transformation of Palm Court are being submitted, marking the start of the formal planning process. The proposals include a required new roof over the existing atrium, inspired by the Victorian Palm House design, alongside enhanced retail spaces and refurbished, larger retail units providing space for the kinds of aspirational brands that local residents would like to see come to the borough, and upgraded, more accessible facilities (including improved toilets) at the upper mall level, creating a more welcoming, vibrant and inclusive experience for all visitors.
A refreshed atrium will also improve movement through the space and foster a more active, inviting environment, complemented by better lighting, new flooring, updated finishes, and new glass balustrades. The former basement food court will be repurposed into a new leisure destination, directly connected to Ely Court with potential for community uses. Further detailed design development will now continue at pace, paving the way for Full Council approval in October 2026 – bringing the vision for these exciting improvements one step closer to delivery.
A Certificate of Immunity from Listing (COIL) application has been submitted by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council for the Friendly Societies Building, a key element of proposals to deliver a new cinema at Ely Court – responding to more than 25 years of demand for a town centre facility of this kind.
The proposals have consistently retained the building’s frontage on Camden Road within the design and continue to do so. However, an application has been made by Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society to Historic England to consider the building’s potential for listing. The COIL application will accelerate the decision by enabling Historic England to consider the building through its enhanced advisory service when it makes its recommendation to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. This clarity will also support ongoing discussions with prospective cinema operators, ensuring their requirements can be effectively incorporated into the scheme.
A spokesperson from Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, said:
“Palm Court is a key priority for us, and we are delighted to be moving forward with proposals that will transform this important part of Royal Victoria Place. This next phase reflects our clear commitment to delivering meaningful, visible improvements at pace, creating a more vibrant, welcoming and modern space for residents, businesses and visitors alike. Shaped by valuable community feedback, we are confident the plans for Palm Court strike the right balance between ambition and deliverability, and we are focused on maintaining this momentum as the scheme progresses.
We know people want to see deliverability. To support this, we have submitted the COIL application to address the circumstances and accelerate the process. It will provide greater certainty for the future of the site and protect our wider investment. Any updates to the proposals for Ely Court resulting from this work will be carefully considered through the appropriate planning processes and further engagement. In parallel, we are continuing constructive discussions regarding the future of the Victoria Snooker Centre.”
Over the past two and a half years, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has taken a proactive and ambitious approach to enhancing Royal Victoria Place, and the progress at Palm Court builds on a strong track record of delivery – including the arrival of leading brands such as Primark and Søstrene Grene, improved signage, enhanced parking, and a growing programme of marketing and events. Together, these initiatives have contributed to a 9 per cent increase in footfall, alongside continued positive trends in visitor engagement and centre performance.