Council Secures Commitment for Urgent Repairs on Grade II Listed Landmark
Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council has intensified its efforts to safeguard the future of the Grade II Listed Rose and Crown Hotel on Tonbridge High Street. Following growing concerns over the historic building’s deteriorating condition, the property’s owners have officially stepped in to take direct management of the site, ending a previous leasing arrangement with an external company.
The owners have publically stated their intention to fully renovate and repair the premises, ensuring its long-term future remains operating as a hotel. The Council has pledged to provide guidance and structural support throughout the restoration process.
Outstanding Works and Structural Investigations
While some initial repairs were completed in May following a structural report commissioned earlier this year, several critical tasks remain outstanding. A recent Listed Building Notice served by the Council highlighted urgent work required on the column’s flat roof and the building’s historic shield and coat of arms.
A subsequent site inspection in July, conducted jointly by the owners and Council planning enforcement officers, revealed further internal deterioration. To assess the full extent of rainwater damage, the owners will now commission additional structural surveys focusing on three key areas:
- The external portico
- The historic carriageway
- A section of the internal restaurant
Council Warns Against Further Delays
Local authorities have welcomed the shift in management but maintain a firm stance on the timeline for the restorations. Councillor Adem Mehmet, Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Tonbridge Regeneration (Trench Ward), emphasised the cultural and historical weight of the property.
“We are pleased that the owners of this historic building finally recognise its importance to the character of Tonbridge High Street. We are reassured by their decision to take over management of the hotel and commitment to carry out the necessary works to the building,” Councillor Mehmet stated.
“However, we have made it very clear that these works must be undertaken without further delay, and we have not ruled out further enforcement action if this doesn’t happen. We will continue to work closely with the Rose and Crown’s owners in order to help secure the required repairs. The Rose & Crown is Grade II Listed and very important to our town, and we have made it clear to the owners that we expect it to be maintained in accordance with the legislative requirements.”
The Council will continue to monitor the site closely to ensure the upcoming structural surveys and subsequent repairs are executed swiftly and up to statutory heritage standards.
Follow Us On Instagram Or Facebook Below To Receive Tonbridge Bean News.
Do you have something you want to tell the Tonbridge Bean about our town? Please share any thoughts and photos no matter how small, we love all Tonbridge news.
Have you subscribed?
Get our weekly newsletter, including a curated list of events for the weekend, straight to your inbox.
Bringing you all the latest news and events in Tonbridge.
Leave a Reply