CPO confirmed for new theatre, civic centre and office development in Tunbridge Wells

Following a twelve-day inquiry, the Secretary of State has confirmed the Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (Calverley Square) Compulsory Purchase Order 2018. The purpose of the CPO is to facilitate the Calverley Square redevelopment scheme, which was granted planning permission in June 2018 and includes a new 1,200 seat theatre, a new civic centre for the Council and commercial office space. Heather Sargent appeared for Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, the acquiring authority (led by Craig Howell Williams QC and instructed by DAC Beachcroft). Rupert Warren QC appeared for Hoopers Ltd, a statutory objector (instructed by Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner). James Neill appeared for Dr Robert Chris and other residents of Grove Hill House, also statutory objectors. The decision confirming the CPO is available here.