CONTROVERSIAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS CPO INQUIRY DECISION

3 May 2019

Ref: PCU/CPOP/M2270/3211220

Inspector Graham Dudley (Hons) Arch Dip Cons AA RIBA FRICS

Following a three week public inquiry, the Calverley Square Compulsory Purchase Order has been confirmed without amendment.

The CPO was made under section 226(1)(a) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and the Acquisition of Land Act 1981 by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.

The purpose of the Order was to provide comprehensive redevelopment of a significant area in the town centre, including a new theatre, public square and civic centre. Power to acquire land and rights was sought in order to deliver the scheme. There were significant objections from property owners and non-statutory objectors.

The grounds of objection were myriad, including issues of need, process, alternatives, consultation, viability and finance, vehicular access, impact on a car park and department store, construction disruption, economic, social and environmental effects, culture, Convention rights and Public Sector Equalities and property.

The Council was represented by Craig Howell Williams QC and Heather Sargent, instructed by Christopher Stanwell of DAC Beachcroft.