Lambert & Foster have played a key role in the exciting return of curling to Kent!
What began as a bold and unique diversification by one of Lambert & Foster’s farming clients in 2004 led to the creation of Fenton’s Rink – England’s only dedicated curling rink at the time. For nearly 20 years, it served the local curling community until the pandemic sadly forced its closure, leaving both the building empty and curlers travelling as far as Belgium to play.
After a period of use for classic car storage, Lambert & Foster were instructed once again to re-market the site – this time anticipating interest for storage or light industrial use. What they didn’t expect was a passionate consortium of curling enthusiasts coming forward with a vision to bring the sport back to its Kentish roots.
Their proposal? To revive the rink under a brand-new banner: Tunbridge Wells Curling Club. After swift and positive negotiations, a deal was struck and the ice is once again alive with the sound of stones sliding and brooms sweeping!
Lambert & Foster are proud to have helped breathe new life into this unique facility and support the return of a much-loved sport to the region.
Not only have Lambert & Foster delivered expert property advice, but Bloomfields have also played a key role in supporting the family on site. Bloomfields successfully demonstrated that a proposed lodge unit met the definitions set out in the Caravan Act, meaning it is not classified as ‘development’. They further established that the lodge would be used for ancillary and incidental purposes related to the main dwelling, and therefore did not require full planning permission. The Council confirmed this by issuing a Certificate of Proposed Use or Development. This certificate enabled a young family member to live on site, providing reassurance and a practical solution for the whole family.
This case highlights yet again how the collaborative approach of Lambert & Foster and Bloomfields delivers positive outcomes, changes lives, and strengthens our growing reputation for trustworthy, practical advice across Kent and Sussex.
If you’re planning a similar project, we’d be happy to help – or for those interested in curling -> here is the link to book your next bonspiel!
