Tunbridge Wells West - October 2000

With the closure of Tunbridge Wells West station in July 1985, it was with almost indecent haste that steps were taken to realise the lucrative redevelopment potential of the site by constructing a large shopping centre.

It is interesting to reflect that in this way, a transport site which had the potential to contribute to a reduction in local road traffic has now become a very significant local generator of such traffic.

In this view to the west, the former station building can be seen at the centre of the picture, with its distinctive clock tower. While the majority of the site was devoted to a Sainsburys superstore, which dominates this view, the eastern end was converted into a small coach parking area. In fact, the vehicles to the bottom left occupy the approximate site of the 'B' signal box, which can be seen in the photo-archive elsewhere on this site.

It might appear from a glance at this photograph that the prospects for rebuilding any kind of railway through this site are extremely dim. However, engineering studies have shown that with minor modifications to the superstore and car parking, a rebuilt route could follow the line indicated. (Grid Ref. TQ 581 385)