Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council (TMBC) has stepped in to force urgent safety works at The Rose and Crown on Tonbridge High Street, warning the owners that “patience has run out” over the continued deterioration of the historic landmark.
Seven-Day Deadline Issued After Water Damage Discovered
Using its powers under Section 77 of the Building Act, the council served an official Building Control notice to the hotel’s owners, R&B Hotels Ltd. The legal order gives the firm seven working days to secure the portico and structural beams, which officers warn could become dangerous without immediate intervention.
The action follows a structural engineer’s report submitted by R&B Hotels Ltd last week. The investigation—ordered by TMBC’s planning enforcement and building control teams following severe rainwater damage—revealed multiple urgent defects across the structure.
While R&B Hotels Ltd stated last week that discussions were underway with contractors and consultants, TMBC issued the formal notice due to the lack of a firm, concrete plan of action. Council officials confirmed that if an actionable plan is not presented within the seven-day window, they will continue to deploy full legal enforcement powers until the repairs are completed.
“Our Patience Has Run Out” Warning Over Grade II* Landmark
Cllr Adem Mehmet, Trench Ward Tonbridge Councillor and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Tonbridge Regeneration, made the council’s firm stance clear:
“I have asked TMBC’s officers to keep up the pressure on the Rose and Crown’s owners to ensure that this building is restored to an acceptable state of repair. We are sending a clear message that our patience has run out due to the continued deterioration of this important landmark building.
“Whilst we remain willing to work with the Rose and Crown’s owners in order to help secure the required repairs, I have made it clear that the Rose & Crown is Grade II* Listed and very important to our town. We expect it to be maintained in accordance with the legislative requirements and are now insisting the owners take appropriate action to remedy these areas of concern.”
The Grade II* listed building remains one of the High Street’s most prominent architectural features, and residents will be watching closely to see if work commences before the council’s deadline expires.
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