It was back in 2023 when hopes were reignited for a rather tired stretch of Tonbridge – the Station Approach retail units. Located right next to the railway station and visible to thousands of commuters each day, this collection of eight small shopfronts had sat largely derelict since 2017. Now, two years on from the announcement of their long-awaited regeneration, the area is beginning to show signs of life. But there’s still work to do.
The Arch Company, which took over the management of these railway arches in 2019, invested £220,000 to transform the units as part of its nationwide Project 1000 — an initiative aimed at bringing 1,000 unused or underutilised spaces back into commercial use by 2030. The work, completed at the end of Summer 2023, included relining interiors, fixing roofs, and restoring full utility connections to the sites.
The regeneration is already paying off in parts. Of the eight small units along Station Approach, five are now occupied, including long-time residents Pizza Go Go and Railway Groceries, who’ve weathered years of decline while the rest of the units sat empty. Joining them are newcomers Realm Tattoo, Tanbridge Tanning, and the Threading Studio — three beauty and self-care businesses that reflect a broader trend of independent, high-margin businesses capitalising on this prime, central location.
That said, three units remain unoccupied, and here at The Tonbridge Bean, we’re asking the question: what would you like to see fill the final spaces?
The area’s location is a huge asset — steps from Tonbridge station, within easy walking distance of the High Street and Castle, and positioned right at the gateway to the town for visitors. Yet for years, the boarded-up units gave a poor first impression. Now, with a fresh new look and half the units buzzing with activity, there’s a real opportunity to shape this area into something vibrant and welcoming.
(5 of 8 units are let with many beaty treatment businesses moving in.)
The success of the new beauty businesses shows there’s a demand for services that cater to self-care and personal grooming. But could this stretch handle more variety?
Some local voices have suggested that a small independent café or juice bar could thrive here, capitalising on morning and evening commuter footfall. Others say a micro bakery, artisan deli, or even a pop-up-style concept store for local makers and crafters could make use of the compact spaces, offering a window into Tonbridge’s growing creative scene.
One resident, Charlotte, 34, told us, “It would be so lovely to have a little café or even a flower shop down there – just something cheerful and local that adds character to the area.”
Others point out the practical need for services such as a dry cleaners, a shoe repair shop, or even a bike repair hub — particularly helpful for the many cycling commuters who pass through Tonbridge station every day.
From a commercial perspective, the smaller unit sizes mean they may not suit traditional retail chains, but that could work in Tonbridge’s favour. Smaller, independently owned businesses bring uniqueness, a sense of identity, and can grow strong customer loyalty – something that chains often lack.
At The Tonbridge Bean, we’re excited by the potential of Station Approach. The regeneration is a step in the right direction, and we commend The Arch Company for finally giving this corner of Tonbridge the attention it desperately needed. But the job isn’t finished yet.
We want to hear from you. What kind of businesses would you like to see fill the final units on Station Approach? What would make your daily commute a little brighter, or your weekend stroll through town more interesting?
Let us know in the comments below – this is your town, and your voice matters.
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