A new mobile phone mast planned for Tunbridge Wells threatens plans for the revival of train services to Crowborough, Uckfield and the South Coast. Although the mast itself would be clear of the trackbed, its equipment cabinets would obstruct the former Eridge route, making it difficult to restore the double track required for a full train service.

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council now recognises the importance of keeping the trackbed clear of obstructions with its recent 'Transport Policy 14' (TP14). This is meant to prevent development that could hinder the reopening of this important rail link between East Sussex and Kent, which BR closed in 1985.

"We believe the council must stick by the spirit of TP14," said Wealden Line Campaign Director Brian Hart. "If this mast goes ahead, it is bound to encourage more encroachments onto the trackbed. Although they might seem insignificant individually, together they could kill any hope of offering the frequent train services that travellers across Kent and East Sussex need."

The Wealden Line Campaign believes TP14 cannot be upheld by maintaining just a single-track route. In 1989 a housing estate was built across both tracks at Groombridge station, leaving a single track curving awkwardly round the houses. Major works will be required here in order to operate modern train services again. At Tunbridge Wells, Sainsburys was allowed to build a toilet block that obstructed the route.

"We just can't afford any more disasters like these," said Mr Hart. "Only a strictly applied planning policy can safeguard the route - and this means maintaining the full width of the remaining trackbed. There must be no more compromises."

The proposed mast would cut into the trackbed at a particularly crucial point near the Wyevale Garden Centre on Eridge Road, where trains would have to pass each other if there were to be a half-hourly service on a revived route. This means that double track here is essential.*

"Existing developments at the Tunbridge Wells West and Groombridge sites already mean that there's no chance of trains passing at those places," said Mr Hart, adding that he hoped that Tunbridge Wells planners "will now recognise their wider responsibility to the South East Region by keeping the track clear."

* According to a series of detailed reports on the route by transport consultants Mott MacDonald, commissioned by East Sussex County Council.

12 January 2003