Ours isn't the only live petition trying to encourage TWBC to improve its planning policy. Here's a message from Sara. She really needs your support as her petition is only 40 short of the crucial 1,000 signatories that will force the council to listen to the town's residents. Please sign and share: "In a recent interview with KentLive, Tunbridge Wells planning boss says they can't refuse an application because developers will appeal and win, and taxpayers will pick up the cost. But what exactly is that true cost? The true cost to Tunbridge Wells is: - the loss of architectural integrity of this once much admired town - traffic congestion and pollution - no parking - loss of spend in retailers (as who wants to fight their way into TW to then hunt for a parking space?) - loss of enjoyment of homes and the town - decline in positive attitudes towards Tunbridge Wells This is the true cost Tunbridge Wells and those who live here have to bear. The Councillor also claims that offices can be converted into flats without any planning permission. However, since prior approval relating to transport and highways impact is required, surely this means the Councillor and his colleagues can influence the impact on our roads and parking? Clearly Councillors do not have the drive to say 'no' to developers, or at the very least, shape what developers propose. And there was I thinking our Councillors were elected to represent the interests of the people and our town. Please help stop ill-considered planning and development in the town by signing this petition: https://www.change.org/p/sign-this-petition-to-stop-ill-considered-planning-and-development-in-royal-tunbridge-wells?source_location=minibar "