34 apartments and gym at 2 - 12 Avebury Avenue, Tonbridge

What was proposed

The application proposed altering, extending and changing the building to provide 34 apartments, parking and a refurbished gym.

“Alteration, extension and change of use of the existing building to a mixed use to comprise 34 no. apartments, with associated parking and refurbishment of existing gym (Revision of TM/19/00287/FL)”

Officer report

Why officers recommended approval

Officers considered the additional water demand modest and capable of being managed through a condition requiring a delivery strategy.

“The development should therefore be assessed against Policy SQ5 of the Managing Development and the Environment Development Plan Document and Policy CP25 of the Tonbridge and Malling Core Strategy, which collectively require new development to demonstrate that adequate infrastructure is available to meet its demand, or that additional capacity can be provided in time to do so. The proposal to create 34 apartments would increase the demand for potable water.”

Officer report

Members’ concerns

Members were concerned about the removed viability review, absent affordable housing and reduced developer contributions.

“During discussion, Members expressed disappointment and concern regarding the removal of the late-stage financial viability review mechanism, the absence of affordable housing and the reduced level of developer contributions.”

“While noting that the Applicant had not provided evidence that the late- stage review would undermine the viability of the scheme, Members were advised that the principal issue was whether the mechanism could be justified by adopted policy. They were further advised that a late- stage review would create the potential for a further contribution if viability improved but would not guarantee that any additional…”

Minutes

Who addressed the committee

The agent addressed the committee in person, and members considered the public speaker’s view.

The vote

Councillor Davis proposed approval, Councillor King seconded it, and members voted 12 in favour and one against.

“Following debate, it was proposed by Councillor Davis, seconded by Councillor King and, following a vote of 12 in favour and one against, the Committee…”

Minutes

The committee’s decision

Permission was granted with the viability review removed, a two-year commencement period and updated policy references in the conditions.

“RESOLVED: That planning permission be GRANTED in accordance with the submitted details, conditions, reasons and informatives set out in the main and supplementary reports of the Director of Planning, Housing and Regulatory Services, subject to:”

“(3) authority being delegated to the Director of Planning, Housing and Regulatory Services to amend the relevant policy references within the Conditions to reflect the National Planning Policy Framework published on 17 August 2026.”

Minutes