Tonbridge Civic Society: since 1963

Tonbridge Civic Society was founded in 1963 after several historic buildings between the Chequers Inn and the Big Bridge were demolished. Since then, the society has acted as a watchdog to help ensure that nothing like this could happen again without the voices of local people being heard.

What does Tonbridge Civic Society do?

  • Reviews and comments on planning applications and planning policies

  • Seeks to conserve the town’s historical fabric and enhance its environment

  • Recognises design excellence

  • Maintains a strong link to Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council planning department

  • Maintains a local list of historic and important buildings

  • Organises talks and visits

Image of Tonbridge High Street and The Chequers pub (Tonbridge Historical Society)

Is Tonbridge Civic Society a political organisation?

  • Tonbridge Civic Society is not affiliated with any political party

  • We strive to work with all local elected representatives

Tonbridge Civic Society:
since 1963

Tonbridge Civic Society was founded in 1963 after several historic buildings between the Chequers Inn and the Big Bridge were demolished. Since then, the society has acted as a watchdog to help ensure that nothing like this could happen again without the voices of local people being heard.

What does Tonbridge Civic Society do?

  • Reviews and comments on planning applications and planning policies

  • Seeks to conserve the town’s historical fabric and enhance its environment

  • Recognises design excellence

  • Maintains a strong link to Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council planning department

  • Maintains a local list of historic and important buildings

  • Organises talks and visits

Is Tonbridge Civic Society a political organisation?

  • Tonbridge Civic Society is not affiliated with any political party

  • We strive to work with all local elected representatives

Approaching our 60th anniversary we have four areas of focus:

For over 25 years, the Society has presented Civic Design Awards for excellence in local new buildings or restorations. The last award was given to Barton Science Centre at Tonbridge School, designed by BDP Architects.

The Tonbridge Civic Society Design Awards

Interactive Tonbridge map

Click on the map to visit our interactive Google map of Tonbridge showing points of interest for further discussion and development.