RVP Transformation Moves Closer

Friday, 25 September 2026 15:51

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has announced plans to transform the Royal Victoria Place are progressing.

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has confirmed that the Palm Court is one step closer to transforming Royal Victoria Place.

The plans for the transformation of Palm Court move forward, with the funding of the proposals now set to be considered by Full Council on 11th November 2026.

This is an important milestone in the plans to create a more modern, welcoming and vibrant destination for Royal Victoria Place (RVP) and Tunbridge Wells.

Alongside the cinema proposals for Ely Court, Palm Court forms a key part of the wider vision for the improvement of RVP. The Council's management of the centre improvements to date have seen footfall levels in RVP now back to pre 2019 levels, with key new tenants added, including headline brands Søstrene Grene, Jamaica Blue and Primark.

The plans for Palm Court include:

• A new, energy-efficient roof over the atrium, inspired by Victorian glass palm houses

• Improved retail space, with larger, modern units designed to welcome the brands customers want to see

• Better accessibility and improved facilities, including new toilets

• A brighter, more attractive atrium with improved lighting, new flooring, updated finishes and glass railings

• A new leisure space replacing the existing basement food court, with a direct link to Ely Court

You can read the full reports for the transformation of Palm Court here:

https://democracy.tunbridgewells.gov.uk/documents/s85197/RVP%20-%20Palm%20Court%20Report%20-%20Final.pdf