River Lawn Victory: Green Party Councillors Lead the Charge for Village Green Status

At the Tonbridge and Malling Green Party, we believe in Working Hard, Not Just During Elections. Our councillors are constantly listening to residents, understanding their concerns, and pushing for meaningful change—even when the cameras aren’t rolling. A shining example of this commitment is the recent success in securing Village Green status for Tonbridge’s beloved River Lawn, a campaign led by Green Party councillors in collaboration with the Liberal Democrats and local community groups.

A Community Triumph

River Lawn, a cherished green space in the heart of Tonbridge, has been at the centre of a years-long campaign to protect it from development and neglect. In 2018, Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council (TMBC) blocked an application by the Barden Residents Association for Village Green status due to a technicality, sparking widespread concern about the future of this vital community asset. Since then, the council has reversed its decision to sell the land for development, but the area has suffered from a lack of proper maintenance under the guise of ‘rewilding’.

Thanks to the relentless efforts of Green Party councillors Mark Hood and Stacey Pilgrim, a motion was brought to TMBC calling for the council to voluntarily ask Kent County Council to designate River Lawn as a Village Green. The motion, which was unanimously supported, also calls for a review of the management of River Lawn, paving the way for much-needed improvements such as better pathways, lighting, and the re-routing of one of the rights of way.

The Power of Community Action

This victory is a testament to the power of community action. The Keep River Lawn Green campaign, led by Chair Emma Hood and Secretary Lucy Athey, has been at the forefront of this fight. Through events like the annual Conker Championships, carol concerts, sports days, and litter-picking sessions, the campaign has brought the community together and highlighted the importance of this space.

Green councillors paid tribute to the campaign’s leaders and the countless residents who signed petitions attended protests and marched to protect River Lawn. They also acknowledged the efforts of former councillor April Clark, a fierce advocate for River Lawn during her time on the council, and thanked their LibDem colleagues for their support.

Green Party Commitment to Tonbridge

This victory is another example of how the Tonbridge & Malling Green Party is showing up, not just during elections. Since joining TMBC, Green councillors have consistently championed the protection and improvement of River Lawn, making the case for its Village Green status alongside other successes like the designation of Upper Castle Fields.

Cllr Mark Hood emphasised the importance of this achievement, stating, “River Lawn is more than just a green space—it’s a vital part of our community. Securing Village Green status ensures that it will be protected for future generations to enjoy.”

Looking Ahead

The review of River Lawn’s management, which will be brought to the Communities and Environment Scrutiny Select Committee, represents an opportunity to address long-standing issues and make the space more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. From better lighting to improved pathways, these changes will ensure that River Lawn remains a vibrant and welcoming place for all residents.

Working Hard, Every Day

The campaign to protect River Lawn is a perfect example of how Green Party councillors are Working Hard, Not Just During Elections. From gathering signatures to navigating the complexities of council processes, our councillors are dedicated to making Tonbridge and Malling a fairer, greener, and more sustainable place for everyone.

If you have an idea for how we can improve our community, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Together, we can continue to protect and enhance the spaces that matter most to us.

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