The major application for the Cinema site in Royal Tunbridge Wells was approved yesterday (12th November) by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s Western Area Planning Committee, subject to the signing of a Section 106 agreement and a total of 44 conditions.

Cllr Roy Bullock, Leader of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, said:

'The decision of Western Area Planning Committee today to approve the application, subject to the signing of a Section 106 agreement, for the redevelopment of the Cinema site is excellent news. At long last, despite some local concerns, this major "Grot Spot" will over the next few years disappear from the horizon and the Town Centre will be vastly improved by this RIBA competition winning architect’s team.'

'Of course, these are difficult economic circumstances and we hope there will not be a delay to the commencement of demolition and new build on this site which has been derelict for far too long.'

'I would like to express my thanks to the applicant, Architect and the planning officers of the Council for the excellent work that they have put in to preparing this application and for the standard of presentation made today at the Western Area Planning Committee. It is a truly historic day for Royal Tunbridge Wells and all of us should celebrate this first stage success'