The 16th Century "Weavers" building which was most recently a tea room, pub and restaurant is set to be converted into a family home.
A planning application has been made to refurbish the original parts of the grade II listed building, while demolishing 20th Century additions and building two new semi-detached houses.
The building on the main road through Southborough was recently a Thai restaurant and then a curry house called Imli.
But from June 2023, it has been empty and was in danger of falling into disrepair.
Developer Larkhall Lane Property Limited put in the application in December 2024.
The former hall house is timber-framed.
According to a Southborough and High Brooms history book by Chris McCooey: "In Victorian times the building was tile hung, but the original Tudor woodwork was revealed again when a Mr Bridges bought the house in 1926. It became the Weavers Tea Room in 1930".
One high roofed room built on the back of the building is believed to have constructed so it could accomodate the looms of the Huguenot weavers. Weaving was an important industry in Tonbridge.
Chris McCooey's source also states: "A chalybeate spring rises underneath the Weavers...visitors could take the water just like they could at the more famous spring on the Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells".
Here is an old picture of a well within the building.
The application by the developers says:
“The proposed removal of modern alterations is necessary to allow for the construction and public benefit of two new dwellings.
"The internal alterations will remove later modern partitions, allow natural daylight and ventilation to parts, and the building will return to its original domestic dwelling class use.
"The demolition of the later extensions is also a heritage benefit, as it will enhance and preserve the character of the original farmhouse."
The plan below shows the walls to be demolished in brown with the new buildings to be constructed to the left of the 16th Century house.
You can find out more about the application and supporting documents by clicking this link and searching for 24/03249/FULL.
Bassetts Farm
"Devastating" changes
Candidates Tonbridge
Candidates Tun Wells
Due to Open in 2028
Vote on May 1
Glare Concerns
"More Efficient" Future
