Wednesday November 7 | 2018
Times
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OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS
Filling empty shops is priority in mall that has been neglected for decades By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk BRITISH Land, Royal Victoria Place’s new owners, say there has been ‘no serious investment or proactive management’ in the mall’s 26 year history. For the first time since buying the flagship centre in May, the firm has clarified its focus to put brands in the
22 empty shops in the main centre and 13 vacant units in Ely Court. And the developer will ask the public what they want to see now £70million plans for a cinema and restaurant extension drawn-up by previous owners Hermes have been shelved. Darren Richards, Deputy Head of Retail, said ‘nothing has been ruled out’ [cinema included] but asked shoppers to be patient.
“Tunbridge Wells is a great place and regardless of what you might have read about the rise of online shopping, you
‘Investment just has not happened for 26 years’ will still need physical space even if online doubled,” he told the Times. He said more shops can be expected
within one year but plans for any refurbishment are still being decided upon. This includes any development to the Food Court. Mr Richards identified the mall’s entrance as a place where ‘lack of investment becomes very apparent’ but is confident of turning the centre around.
Read the full story on Page 11
PHOTO: Sarah Mott
Dunorlan lights up the sky and boosts local charities
COLOURS BURST: Around 12,000 watched the Dunorlan Park Fireworks on Saturday, the 61st fundraiser organised by Royal Tunbridge Wells Round Table Page 6
Lest we forget: For the stories behind Remembrance Sunday and full details of events held to remember the Fallen and their families See pages 8-10