Safer Link to Retail Parks

Thursday, 5 June 2025 11:43

By Martin Webber

Lighting is to be installed along a riverside path in Tonbridge.

The cabinet of Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council has decided to move forward with a long-awaited initiative to enhance safety along the 380-metre path linking the Town Lock area and the retail parks at Vale Road and Cannon Lane.

The path is currently unlit and bordered by trees along the river’s edge, prompting night time safety concerns.

Cllr Adem Mehmet, (pictured below) who's the cabinet member for infrastructure and Tonbridge regeneration, said the project was a major step forward in making Tonbridge a safer, more welcoming place for everyone.

He continued: "The riverside route is a key link for residents, workers and visitors, and this investment will help ensure it feels accessible and secure all year round. It’s a great example of how we’re delivering on our commitment to improve public spaces and support sustainable travel.”

Following a feasibility study, the council is now progressing to the design and tender stages.

The council said that several options have been explored such as solar-powered and low-level bollard lighting.

But the final design is likely to feature taller column lighting to ensure consistent and reliable illumination with construction expected to begin later this year.

The estimated cost of the project is £100,000, which will be funded through a combination of external sources.

These include support from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the Business Rates Pool programme, which has allocated funding for improvements in Tonbridge town centre.

At the same meeting on Tuesday night, the council's cabinet agreed to voluntarily apply for Village Green status for River Lawn in the heart of Tonbridge.

Tonbridge Green Party said: "This is a very significant moment and it comes soon after the confirmation by KCC that Upper Castle Fields has become a Village Green after proposals to extend a car park over parts of it were abandoned".

Full details on this story here:
https://www.westkentradio.co.uk/news/west-kent-news/river-lawn-protected/