This is a perfect example of how WPARA can support residents. Mike Warriner at No. 86 wanted to restore the driveway access points with stableblock pavers as part of his external refurbishment. He had planning permission from Tunbridge Wells Borough Council but it was subject to obtaining a licence from the Highways and Transportation Department at Kent County Council. Unfortunately, the Crossovers Team at Kent County Council Highways Department had different ideas and were insisting on tarmac.
We had several communications with them over a period of a few months, but they refused to budge, despite showing them photographic evidence of similar crossovers including the house next door. We pointed out the driveway was in a Conservation Area and invited them down to see for themselves, but this was all fruitless. Eventually, after some ‘high level’ meeting, they told us their final decision was tarmac and we would have to make a formal appeal against their decision if we were not satisfied.
Out of desperation Mike sent a letter again reiterating our points and, out of the blue, a completely different person responded saying it was OK for him to go ahead and the crossovers have now been restored.
So, all’s well that ends well and hopefully it secures a precedent for other driveway restorations and widenings and helps to preserve the unique identity of the area for future generations. It also highlights the challenges of dealing with a devolved administration and a division of responsibilities between Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and Kent County Council.
