Council Leader re-elected
At the Annual Meeting of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council on Wednesday 20 May, Councillor Ben Chapelard (St James’ ward) was re elected as Leader of the Council.
Cllr Chapelard confirmed his administration will continue broadly unchanged. Councillor Corinna Keefe will remain Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, following her period of maternity cover for Councillor Astra Birch, as the Council continues to deliver the priorities set out in its Strategic Plan.
Cllr Chapelard said:
I start my fifth year in this role, please rest assured my passion, energy and commitment to our residents and businesses is as bright as ever.
Looking ahead, Cllr Chapelard highlighted the importance of the 2026–27 municipal year, with Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) set to bring significant change.
He said:
Local Government Reorganisation is the biggest change in local government in over half a century. While it will mean the end of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council as we know it, it also marks the beginning of a new chapter. My commitment is to help establish a new unitary council that delivers the best possible outcomes for our residents and businesses.
A shadow unitary council for West Kent is expected to operate alongside Tunbridge Wells Borough Council by this time next year, with the final geography due to be confirmed in summer 2026. Proposals for a Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Council will also be considered later this year.
Despite these changes, the Council will continue to focus on delivering its current priorities, including:
- Investing in leisure facilities to support community wellbeing
- Progressing the Langton Green to Tunbridge Wells cycle route via Rusthall
- Reducing carbon emissions, including the installation of solar panels at Royal Victoria Place (RVP)
- Advancing plans for the redevelopment of RVP to support a vibrant town centre
The Council’s ambition remains for our borough to be a place where all generations can live healthy and fulfilling lives in vibrant and connected communities.
Following the local elections on 7 May, the Liberal Democrats hold 25 of the 39 seats on the Council, forming the largest political group.
