Consultation launched on the future of Torrington Car Park

Grifo Developments has launched a public consultation on the early-stage proposals for the future of Torrington Car Park, located opposite Royal Tunbridge Wells train station. Local residents, businesses and stakeholders are being invited to review the emerging concepts and share their views before detailed plans are progressed.

The Torrington Car Park site has long been recognised within local planning policy as a key regeneration opportunity. As a Tunbridge Wells–based company, Grifo is now exploring how this prominent but underwhelming site could be transformed into a high-quality, mixed-use development that improves the arrival experience into the town while retaining all existing public and rail car parking spaces.

The emerging proposals include new Build-to-Rent homes, improved public parking, commercial space at ground floor level and enhancements to the pedestrian and cycling environment. These initial concepts have been informed by early discussions with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and are guided by a clear set of principles, including delivering a design of lasting quality, ensuring the scheme fits sensitively within its surroundings and focusing on practical deliverability.

Matthew Bates, Managing Director of Grifo Developments, said:

“We fully appreciate how important this site is to the town and to those who live and work closest to it. These proposals are still at an early stage, and we want the community to help shape how they evolve. This is a genuine consultation: we are committed to listening carefully, considering all feedback and responding to what we hear before any planning application is prepared.”

Two public drop-in events will take place to present the emerging concepts and gather feedback:

• Wednesday 26 November 2025, 11.00am – 4.00pm
  The Amelia Scott (Upper Atrium) within the adult library

• Tuesday 2 December 2025, 3.00pm – 8.00pm
  One Warwick Park Hotel (Function Room)

Representatives from Grifo and the wider project team will be available throughout both sessions. For those unable to attend, the exhibition materials and a feedback form will be available online at www.futureoftorrington.co.uk from 26 November.

Feedback will be accepted until Sunday 18 January 2026, after which the project team will reflect on the responses and develop the proposals further ahead of any planning submission to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.

24th November 2025