Royal Victoria Place's Palm Court Transformation

Thursday, 25 June 2026 18:30

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council have announced that Palm Court in the Royal Victoria Place is one step closer to transformation.

Following the latest round of engagement on the updated designs for a new cinema and improved retail, leisure and community facilities at Royal Victoria Place a planning application has now been submitted to transform RVP’s Palm Court. The plans include a new atrium roof, enhanced retail spaces, and upgraded, more accessible facilities.

More than 8,000 people participated across three rounds of engagement, generating over 3,500 pieces of feedback. These proposals reflect two years of work between the Council, the design team and feedback gathered during earlier engagement.

Progress is also continuing on plans for a new cinema and family-friendly dining at Ely Court. The proposals retain the frontage of the Friendly Societies Building, while a Certificate of Immunity from Listing (COIL) has been submitted to Historic England. This process will determine whether the building should be protected for its historic importance and will provide greater clarity for the next stages of development.

Overall, this marks an important step towards creating a more vibrant, welcoming and modern destination for Tunbridge Wells.

For more info about the transformation of RVP, visit rvpfuture.com.