Tunbridge Wells Residents Mobilize to Save Their Commons from Development

Residents of Tunbridge Wells are actively working to raise funds to purchase their privately owned commons, which have been put up for sale by Targetfollow, a property management company. The commons, a 106-hectare (256-acre) area rich in biodiversity, are at risk of being developed into luxury apartments and parking spaces. Local advocates, including John Barber, a former chair of the Friends of Tunbridge Wells and Rusthall Commons charity, emphasize the urgency of the situation, stating, “It’s now or never.” The community has until March 26 to secure the necessary funds to make an offer, as the land is registered as an asset of community value.

The Guardian

The wooded commons support a diverse ecosystem, including 28 butterfly species, 18 dragonfly species, and 300 flowering plants, some of which are nationally scarce. The area serves as a vital recreational space for residents, with activities such as jogging and dog walking being common. Local resident Camilla Macnaghten expressed her fondness for the area, highlighting its historical significance and the peace it offers amidst urban life.

The Guardian

Despite stringent legal protections against development, including an act of parliament, the potential sale poses significant risks. Targetfollow is offering a parcel of the commons, currently an unsurfaced car park, for separate sale, which could be transformed into 104 luxury apartments and 285 underground parking spaces. The Friends charity argues that the proposed replacement land offered by Targetfollow does not hold equivalent amenity value, as it is not connected to the existing commons. Clare Sinha, a local conservator, noted the challenges ahead, stating, “I’d like to feel we’ve got enough legal protection for it but I don’t think we have.”

The Guardian

The Friends charity has garnered substantial support from local residents, with Roger Barton, the chair, emphasizing the importance of securing the commons for future generations. The community's efforts are crucial, as missing this opportunity could mean a permanent loss of the area’s natural beauty and recreational space. Targetfollow has indicated international interest in the sale, raising concerns among locals about the potential transformation of their cherished commons.

The Guardian

The Friends charity has expressed optimism about community support, stating, “We’ve certainly got a lot of support from local residents. What we need now is to raise the pledges to buy it.” Meanwhile, Targetfollow has not disclosed specific details regarding the sale price or the extent of interest from potential buyers.

The Guardian

• “Now we want development arrested for the commons,” — John Barber, Former Chair, Friends of Tunbridge Wells and Rusthall Commons

The Guardian

• “Roger Barton, the chair of the Friends, said: “The important thing is to secure the commons, not just for us but for future generations.” — Roger Barton, Chair, Friends of Tunbridge Wells and Rusthall Commons

The Guardian

The residents of Tunbridge Wells face a critical moment in their efforts to preserve their commons, balancing community aspirations against the pressures of development.

The Guardian