People come to Royal Tunbridge Wells in Kent to partake of the curative waters of the Chalybeate spring. As they wait for its effects to kick in they may admire the town’s architecture — from the Georgian Pantiles and the grand Victorian villas to the Arts and Crafts family homes. The wrought-iron balcony railings, white-framed bay windows and red-tiled exteriors of its houses make the town a feast for the eyes. Yet like many historic places in Britain, Tunbridge Wells needs to preserve its heritage and grow.
The borough council has said that almost 10,000 homes need to be built in the town within 15 years — there are 900 under construction, with more planned. However, like many towns, tough choices need to be made