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Tonbridge Old Fire Station is being revamped with pop up shops, Sankeys of Tunbridge Wells is the latest to join

A handful of popular businesses will be hosting pop-up shops in a fire station which has stood empty for more than 35 years.

The iconic building in Tonbridge is being given a new lease of life by the owner, Richard Collins, who purchased it at auction.

The successful businessman, who beat more than 40 bidders to the site, revealed his innovative plans earlier this year.

Richard Collins is re-vamping the Old Fire Station
Richard Collins is re-vamping the Old Fire Station
Richard Collins bought the Old Fire Station at an auction
Richard Collins bought the Old Fire Station at an auction

Earlier this month a number of businesses and professionals met with Mr Collins, 42, and confirmed a space in the historic building in Castle Street.

Among the bunch was former Professional MasterChef contestant, Adam Handling, much-loved Tunbridge Wells drinking spot, Fuggles Beer Cafe, and high-end tailoring business, Hardman and Hemming.

The latest business confirmed on board is Sankeys of Tunbridge Wells.

The seafood brasserie and bar is a well-known venue in the area and owner, Matthew, met with Mr Collins at the Old Fire Station to seal the deal.

Richard Collins with Adam Handling, one of the latest additions to the business plan
Richard Collins with Adam Handling, one of the latest additions to the business plan
Matthew from Sankey's of Royal Tunbridge Wells with Richard
Matthew from Sankey's of Royal Tunbridge Wells with Richard

Mr Collins said: "It's quite exciting. I bought the place a year ago and I was going to place my offices in there. I then spoke to a couple of friends about it and realised how fantastic the building is.

"Everyone loves it in Tonbridge. My offices are still going in on the top floor, but we are looking for a range of different things for downstairs. It's basically a big community space."

Work has been taking place to revamp the building's inside and it is hoped the pop-ups will begin to open next month.

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