The Springs is a substantial Victorian building located on Tonbridge Road, Pembury: south of the Pembury Hospital complex. The proposal for a change of use did not involve any external changes or extensions with the existing access arrangements and parking provision retained.
It was highlighted that the proposed use remains associated with Pembury Hospital and was therefore entirely appropriate in principle. DHA carried out pre application discussions with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council to confirm the acceptability of the proposal.
It was highlighted that despite being located in proximity to the Green Belt, a case of Very Special Circumstances was not required as no external changes were proposed to the building.
Overall the proposal presented a sustainable change of use allowing nurses to walk to work and thereby reducing the number of staff vehicle trips to and from Pembury Hospital. Permission was granted in May 2012.