An ambitious scheme to transform 30 acres of unused land in Tunbridge Wells into a green business community has taken a step forward.

Regeneration specialist U+I is behind the plans and has been given nine weeks to iron out highway proposals by the local council before being granted full planning permission.

It is hoped the scheme will go towards addressing the shortfall of office and industrial space in the area.

If plans are approved, Kingstanding, located 3.5 miles from Tunbridge Wells town centre, will boast a range of flexible spaces for a variety of businesses.

The site is surrounded by ancient woodlands which once served as the hunting grounds for 11th century nobleman Gilbert de Tonbridge - which has inspired the name.

U+I’s proposals will see the delivery of nearly 800,000 sq ft of flexible warehouse and office accommodation.

The new offices will be situated around the perimeter of the site, with new warehousing units concentrated in the north-west corner. Buildings will be positioned adjacent to woodland.

Richard Upton, chief development officer at U+I, said: “With demand for office and industrial space far outstripping supply, Kingstanding will attract firms from a range of backgrounds to work in a workspace inspired by the outdoors and fit for the modern era. It will also create over 4,000 new jobs in the local community, stimulating economic growth.”

The resolution to grant planning consent was made unanimously at a virtual council committee on Wednesday. U+I now has nine weeks to resolve matters relating to the final highways assessment in order to secure full planning approval.

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