Consultation Documents

This section contains documentation for consultations
on which the Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Forum will give comment in due course.

Consultation concerning Council Tax Benefit Alternatives

RTW Town Forum08.10.2012 - RTW Town Forum Response regarding Council Tax Benefit Alternatives

Establishing a List of Local Heritage Assets

The Borough Council is seeking views on a new initiative, to protect the heritage of the Borough. The List of Local Heritage Assets will be a locally designated register of buildings and other features in the environment which are locally distinctive or have particular importance to the local community and which deserve recognition. It will be separate to the nationally designated Statutory List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest which includes the well established Grade I, II* and II listed buildings.

Consultation takes place from 30 January 2012 for six weeks until 11 March 2012.
To read the document and make comments Local Heritage Assets - Consultation

RTW Town Forum27.02.2012 - Comments to Local Heritage Assets - Supplementary Planning Document

REPORT OF THE BUDGET RTW TF WORKING GROUP
Draft Proposals on the Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Budget for 2012/13 (and subsequent years)

The budget for the year 2012/13 is out for consultation, and makes sorry reading. It forecasts a deficit of £326,000.
RTW Town Forum26.01.2012 - Report to RTW Town Forum Meeting

REPORT OF THE FOUNTAIN RTW TF WORKING GROUP
Update on the Jubilee Fountain for Royal Tunbridge Wells

RTW Town Forum submission26.01.2012 - Report to RTW Town Forum Meeting

VISION FOR KENT 2010-2021
Have your say in making Kent a better place over the next 10 years

The Vision for Kent 2011-2021 is the new community strategy for the County. It is owned by Kent Forum, a partnership of Kent’s Councils that agrees shared priorities and responds to the needs of local communities and businesses.
Vision for Kent sets out three big ambitions to make Kent a better place: to grow the economy; to tackle disadvantage; to put citizens in control.
The ambitions have been developed by many organisations that provide services to the people of Kent, including from the public, private and voluntary sectors.

You can read the draft, find out more and complete the online consultation survey until 22 August 2011 www.kentforum.org.uk

ANNOUNCEMENT
Local Development Framework (LDF) - Core Strategy Review

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council is responsible for preparing planning policy documents to guide long-term strategic development decisions in the Borough.
The Core Strategy is an overarching planning strategy for the Borough which e.g. sets out how much housing is required in the Borough. The adopted Core Strategy 2006 - 2026 is currently under review. The forthcoming consultation on the Core Strategy Review is due to happen from 16 May 2011 to 24 June 2011. Core Strategy Review - Consultation May/June 2011

RTW Town Forum submission 26.06.2011 - Core Strategy Review26.06.2011 - RTW Town Forum - Comments to Core Strategy Review
RTW TF Working Group: June Bridgeman, John Barber, John Cunningham, Helen Featherstone, Alison Finlay, Katharina Mahler-Bech, Christopher Thomas, Mary Wardrop.

Local Development Framework (LDF)
Local Development Scheme (LDS) and
Developoment Plan Documents (DPDs)

During 2011, consultation will take place on each of the following important policy-making "Development Plan Documents" (DPDs):

  • Core Strategy Review
  • Town Centres Area Action Plan DPD
  • Allocations DPD
  • Development Management Policies DPD
Planning Applications in RTW Local Development Scheme (Timetable)

Invitation to comment on Planning Applications in RTW wards
Kent & Sussex Hospital - Vale Royal Methodist Church - Skinners Academy

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council's weekly list for the week ending the 31 December 2010 lists three major planning applications:
- Kent & Sussex Hospital, Mount Ephraim (CULVERDEN ward)
- Vale Royal Methodist Church, London Road (PANTILES & ST MARK'S ward)
- Skinners Academy, Blackhurst Lane (SHERWOOD ward).

There is either the "Make a comment" feature on Public Access or e-mails can be sent to planningcomments@tunbridgewells.gov.uk
Planning Applications in RTW / Public Access for Planning

Tunbridge Wells Regeneration Company
"The Future of the Civic Complex"

Consultation December 2010 until Monday 31 January 2011 - EXTENDED TO 14 February 2011


RTW Town Centre - Civic Centre Site - Consultation Dec 2010 / Jan 2011QUESTIONNAIRE "The Future of the Civic Complex"


ONLINE questionnaire "The Future of the Civic Complex"

Rusthall - A Parish in future?
Rusthall Community Governance Review

The consultation on the draft proposals on whether or not Rusthall should be parished and be separated from Royal Tunbridge Wells will close on 31 December 2010. The draft proposals include information on the creation of a parish council, the proposed name of the parish and the number of councillors to be elected.

After 31 December, final proposals will be prepared and submitted again to the above committees in January and February 2011 and they will also appear on the website. If the final proposals recommend that Rusthall becomes a parish and has a parish council, the next step would be for the Council to make a reorganisation order, a legally binding document. Preparation will then take place to coincide the first parish council election with the Borough election and national referendum taking place on 5 May 2011.

So make your voice heard and take part now!
For any further information, contact Nicola Timms, Electoral Services Team Manager, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, Tel: 01892 554106, nicky.timms@tunbridgewells.gov.uk

Rusthall - A parish? - Consultation Dec 2010Rusthall - A parish? - Consultation until 31 December 2010

Kent & Sussex Hospital site

In summer 2011 the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust is vacating the Kent and Sussex Hospital, to move to the new state-of-the-art hospital at Pembury.
Discussions are under way with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council about the future of the existing Kent and Sussex Hospital site and we want to invite you to have your say. Public consultation events will be held at the Kent and Sussex Hospital Choices Restaurant, Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells on Friday, 1 October 2010 (2pm-6pm), Saturday, 2 October 2010 (10am-4pm), Monday, 4 October 2010 (4pm-8pm).

The Trust is intending to sell the site with outline planning consent, which will be applied for later this year. The exact details of any scheme will be decided between a future developer and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. At this stage the planning application will propose a mixed development including retail, offices and residential units, sympathetic to the townscape of central Tunbridge Wells. The proceeds of the sale of the Kent and Sussex site will be directly invested into purchasing the major medical equipment to be installed in the new hospital at Pembury, allowing the Trust to deliver the very best health care for the local community for years to come.

Further information: on 01622 225859 or e-mail twohospitalsonefuture@nhs.net

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BOROUGH LOCAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK:
Town Centre Area Action Plan and
Allocations Development Plan Documents and
Borough Transport Strategy

RTW Town Centre Area Action Plan - RTW TF comments 24.08.201024.08.2010 - RTW Town Forum - Comments to RTW Town Centre Area Action Plan
RTW TF Working Group: Benhall Mill Road Land Association, Calverley Park Residents Association, Telephone House Neighbours Assocation, Woodbury Close Residents Association

RTW Town Centre Area Action Plan - RTW TF comments 24.08.201024.08.2010 - RTW Town Forum - Comments to RTW site allocations

RTW Town Centre Area Action Plan - Telephone House Neighbours Association - comments 20.08.2010 - K.M-B20.08.2010 - Telephone House Neighbours - Comments to Town Centre Area Action Plan

RTW Town Centre Area Action Plan - Resident Tim Pendry - comments 22.08.201022.08.2010 - Town Centre Resident - Comments to RTW Town Centre Area Action Plan

RTW Town Centre Area Action Plan - Banner Farm Residents Association - comments 29.08.2010 - JVG29.08.2010 - Banner Farm RA - Comments to RTW Town Centre Area Action Plan

RTW Town Centre Area Action Plan - Village Residents Association - comments 30.08.2010 - MG30.08.2010 - Village RA - Comments to RTW Town Centre Area Action Plan

RTW Town Centre Area Action Plan - Greg Clark to Cllrs Roy Bullock & Glenn Hall 30.08.2010 - MG30.08.2010 - Greg Clark, MP - Letter re: RTW Town Centre to Cllr Roy Bullock, Leader of the Council and Cllr Glenn Hall, Chairman, Tunbridge Wells Regeneration Company Ltd

Cardboard Banks at Recycling Bring Sites

The Council is currently reviewing the provision of cardboard recycling banks at the Bring Sites across the borough.
Cardboard recycling banks are provided by the council on 14 recycling sites out of a total of 34 recycling sites. The majority of recycling sites are in and around Royal Tunbridge Wells town centre, an area which is provided with a green box for fortnightly collections direct from the householder.
The banks at the recycling sites are also reaching the end of life and investment is necessary if Council continues to provide this service at the recycling sites.
Question: Would the expenditure be considered appropriate as TWBC offers a kerbside service within the green box scheme?
The total tonnage collected from these banks is in the region of 250 tonnes per annum, this compares with any overall recycling and composting tonnage for this council of 21,400 tonnes.
Question: Should TWBC withdraw the brown cardboard banks on the bring sites?

The Council would welcome the comments of RTW Town Forum members.
If you have any queries or wish to discuss the matter please contact
Gary Stevenson, Head of Environment and Street Scene (gary.stevenson@tunbridgewells.gov.uk)
by Friday 24 September 2010.

The Community Right to Build

If you and your neighbours had the power to decide, how would you develop your community?

The leaflet The Community Right to Build published 23 July 2010, offers information and advice to communities interested in setting up Right to Build organisations.
But the Community Right to Build won’t be used to expand the size of communities by more than 10 per cent over a 10 year period.
Contact righttobuild@communities.gsi.gov.uk
For details on the plans www.communities.gov.uk/righttobuild

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BOROUGH LOCAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK:
Town Centre Area Action Plan and
Allocations Development Plan Documents and
Borough Transport Strategy

Town Centres Area Action Plan Development Plan Document (TCAAP):
A planning policy document which will look comprehensively at development in the Borough’s town centres of Royal Tunbridge Wells; Southborough; Paddock Wood; and Cranbrook. The TCAAP will allocate sites for a mix of uses in these town centres and will provide other policies relating to matters such as conservation; movement and access; and the public realm.

Allocations Development Plan Document (Allocations DPD):
A planning policy document which will allocate specific sites for a range of uses (including housing; retail; employment; and leisure) across the whole Borough outside the four town centres referred to above.

The consultation will be open for eight weeks from 14 June to 30 August 2010.

More information on the Borough Council's website: Royal Tunbridge Wells TCAAP
Complete the questionnaires on-line or e-mail to planning.policy@tunbridgewells.gov.uk

RTW Town Centre Area Action Plan - RTW TF comments 24.08.201024.08.2010 - RTW Town Forum - Comments - RTW Town Centre Area Action Plan
- including comments to RTW site allocations

SEE ALSO 2009 - 1st engagement - TCAAP:

RTW Town Centre Area Action Plan - questionnaire - RTW TF comments 08.06.0908.06.2009 - RTW Town Forum - Submission - RTW Town Centre Area Action Plan

Is Rusthall fit to have its own Parish Council in future?

A review has been launched after Rusthall called for its own parish council to be established and to be separated from Royal Tunbridge Wells.

A Public Meeting will take place on 30 June 2010 at the United Reformed Church Hall in Rusthall. To attend contact Nicola Timms, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, 01892 554106 or e-mail nicky.timms@tunbridgewells.gov.uk.
Residents can take part and submit their views on www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk/rusthall or return the questionnaire to the TWBC officer.

Tunbridge Wells Together Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 2026

Consultation on the Tunbridge Wells Together Sustainable Community Strategy 2010-2026

Sustainable Community Strategy 2010-2026 - Consultation Draft
21 December 2009 - 16 April 2010

Any comments? ( 21 December 2009 - 16 April 2010 )
— by e-mail to Community and Corporate Planning - michelle.graley@tunbridgewells.gov.uk or
take part and give your views through the Borough Council’s online consultation portal
Sustainable Community Strategy - Link to Consultation Portal

LDF Core Strategy - Changes to Core Policy 6: Housing
Affordable housing provision

During the course of the examination hearing sessions the Inspector (Nov/Dec 2009) reached the preliminary conclusion that the evidence base justified reducing the threshold for the provision of affordable housing in Royal Tunbridge Wells and Southborough from 15 dwellings to 10 dwellings to align it with the proposed threshold elsewhere in the borough. He also considered that the Core Strategy could be made clearer in relation to how affordable housing on rural exceptions sites will be provided. — The following changes to the Core Strategy are proposed in response.

Core Strategy Changes to Core Policy 6 - affordable housing provision - Consultation
11 January 2010 - 5 February 2010

LDF Core Policy 6  Housing - affordable housing - RTW TF comments 14.01.201014.01.2010 - RTW Town Forum - Comments - LDF Core Policy 6 Housing (affordable)

Draft - Strategic Plan 2010 - 2015

The draft Strategic Plan 2010-2015 sets out the Council’s approach to delivering its corporate priorities over the next five years. The Plan outlines a number of strategic objectives under the four corporate priorities: Prosperous - Green - Healthy - Confident. Together these priorities underpin the design, and delivery of council services, the prioritisation and allocation of resources and the achievement of value for money.

Strategic Plan 2010-2015 - Consultation Draft
18 December 2009 - 5 February 2010

Any comments? ( 18 December 2009 - 5 February 2010 )
— by e-mail to Community and Corporate Planning - michelle.graley@tunbridgewells.gov.uk or
tell what you think and give your comments through the Borough Council’s online consultation portal Strategic Plan - Link to Consultation Portal

Planning Policy Statement 15: Planning for the Historic Environment

This Government consultation invites views on a new Planning Policy Statement (PPS) that will replace Planning Policy Guidance 15: Planning and the Historic Environment (PPG15) and Planning Policy Guidance 16: Archaeology and Planning (PPG16).

Planning Policy Statement 15: Planning for the Historic Environment - Consultation
24 July - 30 Oct 2009


Residents Parking Zone C in Royal Tunbridge Wells
Kent County Council Proposal

The Kent County Council proposes to make a new Order under Sections 36, 39 and 45 (2) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, the effect of which would be as follows:

  • One hour limited waiting 8am-5pm, Monday to Saturday, return prohibited within four hours, except permit holders and 5pm-8pm permit holders only in any of the length of roads specified in PART ONE of the Schedule .
    Explanatory Note: The existing restrictions in those roads listed in PART ONE of the Schedule have been changed to one hour limited waiting, 8am to 5pm Monday to Saturday and introduces a residents parking only restriction between 5pm and 8pm Monday to Saturday. Additional bays are also proposed and details of these are highlighted.
Postal addresses comprising Zone C and who are eligible to purchase a maximum of two permits per household unit and visitors’ permits are listed in the APPENDIX to the Schedule.

If you wish to support or object to the proposed Order, you should write to the Head of Environment and Street Scene Services (Gary Stevenson), Town Hall, Royal Tunbridge Wells to be received no later than 4 September 2009. In the case of an objection, you must state your reasons in writing.
Should you require further information please contact TWBC, Kerry Wing - 01892 554288.


Gambling Licences
Statement of Gambling Policy

Statement of Principles - Gambling Act 2005
21 July - 11 October 2009

The new Gambling Act 2005 came into force on 1 September 2007. It replaces most of the existing law about gambling in Great Britain and aims to put in place an improved, more comprehensive structure of gambling regulation. It modernises 40-year-old gambling laws, ready to face the challenges of today and the future, while including a number of important protections.

The new Gambling Act requires that all local authorities prepare, consult and publish a Statement of Gambling Policy which sets out the principles of how the authority will manage the licensing of local gambling activities over the next three years.

Any comments on the policy until 11 Oct (approval by Full Council on 16 December 2009)
— e-mail to: licensing@tunbridgewells.gov.uk
Sharon Osborne, Senior Licensing Officer, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council


TUNBRIDGE WELLS BOROUGH LOCAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

Publication of Core Strategy Submission Document for comment

Early engagement on Town Centres Area Action Plan & Allocations Development Plan Documents

The Borough Council is preparing a number of Development Plan Documents (DPDs) as part of its Local Development Framework (LDF), which will gradually replace the adopted Local Plan. Comments can be submitted for a period of six weeks from Wednesday 29 April 2009 to midnight on Wednesday 10 June 2009 on: Core Strategy DPD — Town Centres Area Action Plan DPD — Allocations DPD

Any comments? — by e-mail to planning.policy@tunbridgewells.gov.uk or
via the Borough Council’s online consultation portal http://consult.tunbridgewells.gov.uk/portal

RTW Town Centre Area Action Plan - questionnaire - RTW TF comments 08.06.0908.06.2009 - RTW Town Forum - Submission - RTW Town Centre Area Action Plan


Draft - Regeneration of Kent
KCC's Framework for Regeneration 2009 - 2020

Draft Consultation until 17 April 2009:
The Changing Policy Landscape for Economic Development and Regeneration;
Strategic Position of KCC's Regeneration Framework; Identified Actions.

Kent Regeneration 2009-2020 - Draft Consultation
Paul Carter, Leader Kent County Council, Jan 2009

12 March 2009 - Report to TWBC Cabinet by David Candlin, Head of Economic Development and Regeneration regarding: “Unlocking Kent’s Potential: Opportunities and Challenges, Kent County Council’s framework for regeneration 2009-2020”.
TWBC's Comments to KCC's Framework for Regeneration 2009-2020


Draft - Strategic Plan 2009 - 2014

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council's Cabinet noted in December 2008 that the Plan would be made available for consultation during January 2009. - Head of Community and Corporate Planning

TWBC Strategic Plan 2009-2014 - Report
TWBC Cabinet Dec 2008

Strategic Plan 2009-2014 is built on the 2008-2011 Plan (--> Consultation Jan 2008) and sets out TWBC’s approach to delivering its corporate priorities.

Draft Strategic Plan 2008-2011 - RTW TF comments 23.02.0823.01.2008 - RTW Town Forum - Submission - Draft Strategic Plan 2009-2014


Rejuvenation Strategy for the Pantiles
Future improvements and developments for the Tunbridge Wells Common

Rejuvenation Strategy for the Pantiles / TW Common - Consultation Draft Version - Oct-Dec 2008Rejuvenation Strategy for the Pantiles / TW Common - Public Consultation - Oct-Dec 2008

BE PATIENT! - this very large pdf (18 MB) takes time to download !

The new owners of the Commons and the Pantiles, Targetfollow, have prepared a Rejuvenation Strategy for the Pantiles in order to establish a vision and future plan for the Pantiles area.
The Rejuvenation Strategy will form part of the evidence base informing the preparation of the LDF and in particular the Town Centre Area Action Plan (TCAAP). The embodiment of the strategy’s key objectives within the TCAAP will strengthen the long term aspirations for the enhancement of The Pantiles and its wider impact upon the town’s economy.

As involvement and input to the Rejuvenation Strategy are important, any individual of the public with an interest in The Pantiles and the wider area has the opportunity to give comments!

Any comments? — e-mail to: improve-rtw@townforum.org.uk / Daniel Bech

Proposal to close Tunbridge Wells High School and
to replace with a new Government funded Academy

Tunbridge Wells High School - Public Consultation Reply Form
11 November - 14 December 2008

Kent County Council is considering a proposal to close Tunbridge Wells High School in order to open a Government funded Academy. Your views as parents, carers, governors, staff, students and other people who have an interest in education in the area are important and will help shape what happens.

Any comments? — e-mail to: school.consultation@kent.gov.uk
Ms Chris Lay, Area Children’s Services Officer, Sevenoaks & Tunbridge Wells, Kent County Council


Improving Local Accountability
Communities in Control

Improving Local Accountability - Public Consultation
7 August - 30 October 2008

Communities and Local Government - Improving local accountability consultation is the first in a series of Communities in Control consultations flowing from the White Paper of July 2008. This consultation covers the implementation of the overview and scrutiny provisions in the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007. It seeks views on how to develop overview and scrutiny powers to hold local officers to account and how to facilitate the work of councillors.

Any comments? — e-mail to: improve-rtw@townforum.org.uk / Daniel Bech

20.10.2008 - RTW TF Comments and Q/A - Consultation: Improving Local Accountability20.10.2008 - RTW Town Forum (Planning / Community) - Submission


Draft - Consultation and Engagement Strategy 2008-2011

Consultation and Engagement Strategy 2008-2011Consultation and Engagement Strategy 2008-2011

TWBC Consultation and Engagement Strategy - Consultation Draft
August - 29 September 2008

This draft strategy is an overarching one, supported by a range of plans:
- "Communication Plan"
- "Customer Service and Access Plan"
- "Engaging Hard to Reach Groups Guide"
that have been developed in parallel with it and which will underpin delivery of TWBC's Consultation and Engagement Strategy.

Any comments? — e-mail to: Nazeya.Hussain@tunbridgewells.gov.uk
Nazeya Hussain, Head of Community and Corporate Planning, TWBC, Town Hall

TWBC Communication Plan - FINAL - Oct 2008October 2008 - TWBC Communication Plan - FINAL


Draft - Vision 2026

TWBC Vision 2026 - Consultation Draft
August - 29 September 2008

For the past year Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has been looking at developing a long-term vision for the borough and over the coming months TWBC will also be working on developing a partnership vision for the borough, which will support a renewed Sustainable Community Strategy in 2009.

Any comments? — e-mail to: vision@tunbridgewells.gov.uk / Nazeya Hussain,
Head of Community and Corporate Planning, TWBC, Town Hall


Air Quality - Action Plan
A26 / London Road: Royal Tunbridge Wells - Southborough

TWBC Draft Air Quality Action Plan 2008Consultation on Draft Air Quality Action Plan

A26 Air Quality - Controlling Traffic / Reducing Traffic
August 2008 - 31 October 2008

Do you think these are the right suggestions? Could you help to implement any of these suggestions? Is there anything else that could/should be done?

Any suggestions? — e-mail to: envprotection@tunbridgewells.gov.uk / Karin Grey
TWBC, Town Hall, Environmental Protection Team, 01892 554240;


Planning for Town Centres
Proposed Changes to Planning Policy Statement 6

Proposed Changes to Planning Policy Statement 6: Planning for Town Centres
- Public Consultation
10 July - 3 October 2008

Communities and Local Government - This consultation on revisions to Planning Policy Statement 6 (PPS6) follows the commitment in the Planning White Paper 'Planning for a Sustainable Future' (Summer 2007) to review the current approach in PPS6 to assessing the impact of proposals outside town centres.
The proposals strengthen the Government's 'town centres first' policy and emphasise the importance of maintaining a strong focus on town centre policy, promoting competition and improving consumer choice.

Any comments? — e-mail to: improve-rtw@townforum.org.uk / Daniel Bech

25.09.2008 - RTW TF Comments and Q/A to proposed Changes to PPS625.09.2008 - RTW Town Forum - Comments

03.10.2008 - RTW CS Comments and Q/A to proposed Changes to PPS603.10.2008 - RTW Civic Society - Comments


Planning Applications
Review of the process for seeking planning permission

Improving the planning application process - Public Consultation
July 2008 - 5 September 2008

The Killian Pretty Review examines the process for seeking planning permission, identify reasons for delays in deciding planning applications and make recommendations for dealing with these and reducing unnecessary burdens for all parties involved in the process.

29.08.2008 - Comments and Q/A to Review29.08.2008 - RTW Town Forum - Comments

31.07.2008 - Comments and Q/A to Review31.07.2008 - Kent Federation of Amenity Societies - Comments


Local Development Framework
- Core Strategy
Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (SHLAA)

LDF Core Strategy - SHLAA sites - RTW TF submission 23.07.0823.07.2008 - RTW Town Forum - Submission
LDF Core Strategy - SHLAA - proposed sites in Royal Tunbridge Wells


Environmental Protection Services

TWBC Environmental ServicesTWBC Environmental Services

TWBC Environment and Street Scene: Environmental Protection Services - Service Levels
Consultation 9 April - 28 May 2008


Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Environment and Street Scene is setting out its standards of Service for Environmental Protection so that customers know what to expect.
The Environmental Protection Service has powers to investigate issues such as:
noise and vibration - odour, smoke and dust emissions - light pollution - accumulations of waste and noxious deposits - filthy and infested premises - pest control - private drainage issues - air quality - contaminated land - some industrial pollution control.
Where the Council has no statutory powers its Environmental Health Officers can offer advice or coordinate action with other enforcement agencies.

27.04.2008 - Comments - Environmental Protection Service Standards27.04.2008 - RTW Town Forum - Submission - Environmental Protection Service Standards

Responses to the consulation were received from both the RTW Town Forum and the Town and Country Housing Association.

15.07.2008 - Environmental Protection Service - Service LevelsJuly 2008 - Environmental Protection Service - Service Levels
FINAL version for Environment, Safer and Stronger Communities Select Committee 15.07.2008


Local Development Framework
- Core Strategy (3rd stage)
Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (SHLAA) Methodology

TWBC held a workshop at the RTW Camden Centre on 6 March 2008. The aims of the event were to make sure that stakeholders had the opportunity to exchange views and to work through elements of the SHLAA methodology. (Online Consultation 25 Feb - 24 March 2008)
There were 42 attendees, representing a wide range of organisations.
Overview of the Local Development Framework was presented by Louise Phillips (Planning Policy Team Leader); the SHLAA was presented by John Spurling (Principal Planning Officer).
Also present were TWBC planning officers.

LDF Core Strategy - SHLAA final doc - April 2008STRATEGIC HOUSING LAND AVAILABILITY ASSESSMENT - Final Doc 04/2008

LDF Core Strategy - SHLAA consultation responses and officers' recommendations/outcome - April 2008DRAFT STRATEGIC HOUSING LAND AVAILABILITY ASSESSMENT REPORT 04/2008 CONSULTATION RESPONSES 25 FEBRUARY TO 24 MARCH 2008 AND
OFFICERS' RECOMMENDATIONS AND OUTCOME

22.03.2008 - LDF Core Strategy - Online Questionaire - RTW TF comments 22.03.0822.03.2008 - RTW Town Forum - Answers to Questions - LDF Core Strategy

22.03.2008 - Comments - LDF Core Strategy (3rd stage) - THNA22.03.2008 - Telephone House Neighbours Assoc - Comments - Core Strategy SHLAA

22.03.2008 - Civic Society submission not filed with RTW TF

Draft - Youth Strategy 2008 - 2011

Draft Youth Strategy 2008-2011Consultation on the Draft Youth Strategy

This youth strategy acknowledges and addresses the key issues and priorities for young people in the borough, as identified by young people themselves. The strategy highlights the common concerns of the majority of young people, and aims to help inform and influence the work of the private, voluntary and community sectors and statutory agencies that provide services and facilities for young people.
Tunbridge Wells borough has a population of almost 12,000 young people aged 11-19, representing 11.3% of the total borough population: approximately 48% of young people live in the urban areas of Royal Tunbridge Wells and Southborough, 52% live in the more rural areas of the borough (figures from 2001 Census).
Population projections published by Kent County Council estimate over the next 15 years, a 20% drop in 0-15 year olds and a 10% increase in 16-24 year olds.

Draft Youth Strategy 2008-2011 - RTW TF comments 24.02.0824.02.2008 - RTW Town Forum - Submission - Draft Youth Strategy 2008-2011


Draft - Strategic Plan 2008 - 2011

Draft Strategic Plan 2008-2011Consultation on the Draft Strategic Plan
TWBC Cabinet noted on 20.12.2007 that the Plan would be made available for consultation and as well referred to the TWBC Corporate Services Select Committee for consideration and comment (report to Cabinet 07.02.08). - Nazeya Hussain, Head of Community and Corporate Planning.

TWBC Strategic Plan 2008-2011 - Report
TWBC Cabinet 20.12.2007


TWBC Strategic Plan 2008-2011 - Consultation Draft
TWBC Cabinet 07.02.2008

Strategic Plan 2008-2011 is built on the 2007-2010 Plan (--> Consultation Feb 2007) and sets out TWBC’s approach to delivering its corporate priorities, which would provide the context in which TWBC would seek to underpin the transition to the National Performance Framework:
- strengthen medium-term planning;
- establish a clear vision for the Council to deliver its commitments in the new Community Plan;
- and inform and support the proposed Council-wide CPA re-assessment in 2008.

Draft Strategic Plan 2008-2011 - RTW TF comments 01.02.0803.03.2008 - TWBC' response to RTW Town Forum submission - Strategic Plan 2008-2011

Draft Strategic Plan 2008-2011 - RTW TF comments 01.02.0801.02.2008 - RTW Town Forum - Submission - Draft Strategic Plan 2008-2011

Draft Strategic Plan 2008-2011 - RTW CivSoc comments 30.01.0830.01.2008 - RTW Civic Society - Submission - Draft Strategic Plan 2008-2011


Local Development Framework
- Core Strategy (2nd stage) - PREFERRED OPTIONS REPORT

Local Development Framework - Core StrategyConsultation on the TWBC Local Development Framework
between 30.11.2007 - 11.01.2008

TWBC Local Development Framework - Core Strategy - Consultation Draft
30 November - 11 January 2008

The Core Strategy is a long-term, strategic planning document for the Borough, which sets out the policy framework for all types of development to 2026.
The Preferred Options Report builds on the information put forward in the Issues & Options Report and on the feedback received during consultation in February-April 2007.
The Preferred Options Report (2nd stage of the Core Strategy) sets out the Council's preferred approach to future development in the Borough up to 2026.
The Sustainability Appraisal of the Core Strategy: Preferred Options Report evaluates the environmental, social and economic effects of the Options and is also available for consultation.

LDF Core Strategy - Online Questionaire - RTW TF comments 10.01.0810.01.2008 - RTW Town Forum - Submission - LDF Core Strategy - Preferred Options

07.01.2008 - Comments - LDF Core Strategy (2nd stage) - THNA07.01.2008 - Telephone House Neighbours Assoc - Comments - Core Strategy

LDF Core Strategy - Summary of Comments - RTW Civic Society 10.01.0810.01.2008 - RTW Civic Society - Summary of Comments - Core Strategy


White Paper: Planning for a Sustainable Future

White Paper: Planning for a Sustainable Future - Public Consultation
21 May - 17 August 2007

Communities and Local Government - This consultation (until 17 August 2007) asks questions on a number of the key proposals contained in the white paper on Planning for a Sustainable Future. The white paper sets out an ambitious programme of proposed reforms to the planning system to be taken forward in the next three years.
It builds on recommendations from the Barker Review of Land Use Planning and the Eddington Transport Study and aims to improve speed, responsiveness and efficiency in land use planning. It proposes reforms on how decisions are taken on nationally significant infrastructure projects, including energy, waste, waste-water and transport. It also proposes further reforms to the town and country planning system, building on recent improvements to make it more efficient and more responsive.

Any comments? — e-mail to: improve-rtw@townforum.org.uk / Daniel Bech

14.08.2007 - RTW TF comments 14.08.0714.08.2007 - RTW Town Forum - Answers to Questions - Planning White Paper


Should the NHS pay for homeopathy?

NHS West Kent Primary Care Trust - Public Consultation
19 April - 2 July 2007

West Kent Primary Care Trust (PCT) ensures that health services are provided for all 674,000 residents in the Dartford, Gravesham, Swanley, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, and Maidstone and Weald areas. The PCT has a budget of £747 million per year, and works with about 400 family doctors, 110 dentists, 104 pharmacists, 6 community hospitals, and 3 larger hospitals. About £200,000 is spent each year on homeopathy.
As part of a wider review of all services and spending, West Kent PCT is considering whether the NHS should fund homeopathy offered by doctors who have a postgraduate qualification in complementary therapy (integrative practitioners). This consultation document sets out the reasons for the review and some suggested ways forward. The PCT Board would like to hear your views to help guide decision-making (19 April 2007 - 2 July 2007).

Local Development Framework
- Affordable Housing Supplementary Planning Document

Consultation on the TWBC LDF - Affordable Housing Supplementary Planning Documen
between 23.04.2007 - 08.06.2007

The Draft Affordable Housing Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) has been prepared in accordance with the Local Development Scheme, and, once adopted, will become part of the Tunbridge Wells Borough Local Development Framework. As such it will be a material consideration in the determination of planning applications. It supplements and provides clarity to Policy H3 (Affordable Housing on market sites); and Policy H8 (Rural Exceptions Affordable Housing) of the Tunbridge Wells Borough Local Plan (2006).

Local Development Framework
- Core Strategy

TWBC Local Development Framework - Core Strategy
Event Record: Workshop at RTW Camden Centre
27 March 2007

The aim of the event was to make sure that all the main interested parties (70 organisations) had the opportunity to exchange views, explore the key issues and make an informed decision prior to the preparation of Preferred Options for the Core Strategy.

Key Issues for the Core Strategy:
- The need to provide 5,000 new homes (ORIGINALLY) by 2026 - CHANGED to 6000 (end 2007)
- The need to protect and enhance the natural environment
- Recognition that high quality and built natural environment encourages tourism expenditure
- The need to ensure that the Core Strategy considers other plans, programmes and strategies, such as the Community Plan.

The Potential Options (for the new homes):
1. Concentrate at the Main Urban Areas – Royal Tunbridge Wells (RTW), Southborough
2. Focus at the five towns: RTW, Southborough, Paddock Wood, Cranbrook, Hawkhurst
3. Disperse development throughout the Borough’s existing settlements
4. Locate development at a new / expanded town

Local Development Framework
- Core Strategy (1st stage) - ISSUES AND OPTIONS REPORT

Consultation on the TWBC Local Development Framework
between 19.02.2007 - 02.04.2007

TWBC Local Development Framework - Core Strategy - Consultation Draft
19 February - 2 April 2007

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has started to prepare a new type of planning document known as the Tunbridge Wells Borough Local Development Framework - Core Strategy. The Core Strategy will set out how, where and when all types of development will take place in the Borough up to 2026. To begin the process of approval the Council has prepared an ‘Issues and Options’ report, for members of the public to comment on from 19 February to 2 April 2007

19.03.2007 - LDF Core Strategy - Online Questionaire - RTW TF comments 19.03.0719.03.2007 - RTW Town Forum - Answers to Questions - LDF Core Strategy


Equality Policy and Scheme

Consultation on the TWBC Equality Policy and Scheme

8 January 2007 — Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s Comprehensive Equality Policy sets out how we will eliminate discrimination and promote equality. The Comprehensive Equality Scheme shows how we will deliver the policy. The scheme covers specific equality themes which also include action plans. Consultation period will close on 16th February 2007.
[Comprehensive Equality Policy - Comprehensive Equality Scheme, overview - Race Equality - Disability Equality]

16.02.2007 - Memorandum - Equality Policy15.02.2007 - RTW Town Forum - Memorandum - Equality Policy/Sccheme


Draft - Strategic Plan 2007 - 2010

Draft Strategic PlanConsultation on the Draft Strategic Plan between 16.01.2007 - 12.02.2007

TWBC Strategic Plan - Consultation Draft
February 2007

The Strategic Plan sets out TWBC's corporate priorities and key targets, which will measure success over the next three years. Every other plan and strategy will feed from and into the Strategic Plan. (Head of Community & Corporate Planning, Nazeya Hussain)

12.02.2007 - Final Represenation - Strategic Plan 2007-2010 - Consultation Draft12.02.2007 - RTW Town Forum - Representation - Strategic Plan 2007-2010

12.02.2007 - Comments - Strategic Plan 2007-2010 - THNA12.02.2007 - The Telephone House Neighbours Assoc - Comments - Strategic Plan

12.02.2007 - Comments - Strategic Plan 2007-2010 - Soroptimists12.02.2007 - Soroptimist Intl. TW/District - Comments - Strategic Plan 2007-2010



Draft - Local Development Framework: Renewable Energy SPD
(Supplementary Planning Document)

10.12.2006 - Comments to Renewable Energy SPD10.12.2006 - RTW Town Forum Housing & Environment Committee - Comments -
Renewable Energy and Sustainability Appraisal


Draft - Leisure Strategy 2006 - 2011

Draft Leisure StrategyConsultation on the Draft Leisure Strategy
between 18.09.2006 - 16.10.2006

09.09.2006 - TWBC Leisure Strategy - Consultation Draft
TWBC Leisure Strategy - Consultation Draft
September 2006


09.09.2006 - TWBC Leisure Strategy - Consultation Draft - Action Plans
TWBC Leisure Strategy - Consultation Draft - Action Plans
September 2006

Following consultation Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has written a Draft Leisure Strategy which sets out its priorities for Leisure provision for the next five years. We would welcome your views on our plans.

19.10.2006 - Comments - Leisure Strategy 2006-2011 Consultation Draft19.10.2006 - RTW Town Forum - Comments - Leisure Strategy 2006-2011

16.10.2006 - Comments - Leisure Strategy 2006-2011 - RTW Civic Society16.10.2006 - RTW Civic Society - Comments - Leisure Strategy 2006-2011


Draft - Housing Strategy 2006 - 2011

Consultation on the Draft Housing Strategy, 1 August 2006 - 30 September 2006

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council is currently developing a new Housing Strategy for the period 2006-2011. The formal consultation on the Council's Draft Housing Strategy 2006-2011 has commenced on Monday 1 August 2006 and will close on 30 September 2006.


Kent County Council - Towards 2010

HAVE YOUR SAY TOWARDS 2010

Public consultation on the document is now underway and this is a chance for you to have your say at the next meeting of Kent County Council Tunbridge Wells Local Board being held on Tuesday 4 July at 5.30pm in Hawkhurst CE Primary School, Fowlers Park, Rye Road, Hawkhurst.


Community Plan 2006 - Consultation Draft

Community Plan Draft Consultation 2006Community Plan Draft Consultation 2006 and Action Plans

May 2006 - TWBC Community Plan - Consultation Draft
TWBC Community Plan 2006 - Consultation Draft
May 2006


May 2006 - TWBC Community Plan - Consultation Draft - Action Plans
TWBC Community Plan 2006 - Consultation Draft - Action Plans
May 2006


Community Plan 2006 Consultation Draft,
Community Plan 2006 Action Plans Consultation Draft,
Comment on the Consultation Draft (acrobat pdf / word doc)
Online consultation 15.05.2006 - 26.06.2006

22.06.2006 - Final Represenation - Community Plan 2006 - Consultation Draft22.06.2006 - RTW Town Forum - Representation - Community Plan 2006

23.06.2006 - Comments - Community Plan 2006 - THNA23.06.2006 - Telephone House Neighbours Association - Comments - Community Plan

23.06.2006 - Comments - Community Plan 2006 - RTW Civic Society23.06.2006 - RTW Civic Society - Comments - Community Plan 2006

23.06.2006 - Comments - Community Plan 2006 - Soroptimists23.06.2006 - Soroptimist Intl. of TW and District - Comments - Community Plan 2006



Draft - Economic Strategy 2006/07

Draft Economic Strategy 2006/07 Consultation

TWBC Economic Strategy - Consultation Draft
January 2006

The draft strategy sets out the key issues and begins to set out the objectives, roles and actions that are needed to develop and support the local economy to ensure that residents and businesses of the borough have an opportunity to improve their futures.

Anyone is welcome to make comments and all views will be given careful consideration.
e-mail: business@tunbridgewells.gov.uk


Draft - Local Development Framework: Alterations / Extensions
(Supplementary Planning Document - SPD)

Alterations / Extensions in Royal Tunbridge Wells and the Borough

The Alterations and Extensions Supplementary Planning Document provides guidance on alterations and extensions to residential buildings although is also applicable to other buildings and uses in residential areas whcih affect existing residential dwellings.
It supplements planning policies contained in the Tunbridge Wells Borough Local Plan (adoption expected spring 2006).
Its main purpose is to advise on issues of amenity, design and sustainability and to promote acceptable standards of development.

  • Draft Alterations and Extensions SPD
  • Alterations and Extensions SPD Executive Summary
  • Alterations and Extensions SPD Sustainability Appraisal
  • Alterations and Extensions SPD Statement of SPD Matters
  • Alterations and Extensions SPD Statement of Consultation

Anyone is welcome to make comments and all views will be given careful consideration.
Comments should be submitted by Monday 27 February 2006
e-mail: strategy@tunbridgewells.gov.uk - tel: 01892 554056


Draft - Local Development Framework: Recreation Open Space
(Supplementary Planning Document - SPD)

Recreation Open Spaces in Royal Tunbridge Wells and the Borough

This document supplements Policies R2, R3 and R4 of the Local Plan (adoption expected spring 2006).
Its main purpose is to ensure that new housing developments incorporate adequate children's playspace and youth/adult recreation open space to meet the needs of future occupants.
Where on-site facilities are not appropriate, developers may be required to contribute towards improving recreation open space provision elsewhere in the same town or parish.

  • Draft Recreation Open Space
  • Recreation Open Space SPD Executive Summary
  • Recreation Open Space SPD Sustainability Appraisal
  • Recreation Open Space SPD Statement of SPD Matters
  • Recreation Open Space SPD Statement of Consultation

Anyone is welcome to make comments and all views will be given careful consideration.
Comments should be submitted by Monday 27 February 2006
e-mail: strategy@tunbridgewells.gov.uk - tel: 01892 554056


Proposed Budget Framework and Council Tax for 2006/7

Proposed Budget Framework and Council Tax for 2006/7

The full proposals are available for viewing
(Cabinet Report 15 December 2005 Corporate and Financial Plan Review).

Anyone is welcome to make comments and all views will be given careful consideration.
Comments should be submitted by Friday 10 February 2006
e-mail: ross.sutton@tunbridgewells.gov.uk - tel: 01892 554075


Local Development Framework

Local Development Framework - Scheme - Timetable - Development Briefs
TWBC - Local Development Framework - Scheme - Timetables - Development Briefs
41 pages - April 2005
Local Development Framework - Glossary
TWBC - Local Development Framework - Glossary
April 2005

Local Development Framework - Sustainability Appraisal

Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report - LDF, TWBC
Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report - LDF, TWBC
for Consultation Meeting 17.10.05
Executive Summary - Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report - LDF, TWBC
Executive Summary - Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report - LDF, TWBC
for Consultation Meeting 17.10.05
Appendices - Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report - LDF, TWBC
Appendices - Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report - LDF, TWBC
for Consultation Meeting 17.10.05
Overview - Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report - LDF, TWBC
Overview - Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report - LDF, TWBC
for Consultation Meeting 17.10.05