Are proposals for shopping centre extension a step too far?

9.55.50pm GMT Mon 19th Dec 2005

A proposal for an extension to the Royal Victoria Place shopping centre has been presented to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council by centre operators Westfield. If built, the extension would almost double the size of existing centre, blotting out three and a half acres of existing town centre development, including Ely Court and Market Square.

Chairman of Tunbridge Wells Liberal Democrats, Dr Alan Bullion, said "I would question why a town the size of Tunbridge Wells needs so many extra shopping units, when existing ones frequently close or become empty due to lack of trade. The divide between the High Street/Pantiles area and the RVP will also widen, and traffic congestion and parking problems will no doubt worsen as well".

Development on this scale in the centre of the town would threaten existing independent businesses in the area, would threaten the individuality of our town. Tunbridge Wells Liberal Democrats will monitor the situation to see what the official planning application from Westfield, expected next year, holds. "As it stands, who," asks Dr Bullion "is this proposed plan meant to serve, except Westfield?"