A weekly newspaper launched nine years ago this month is going online-only in a bid to meet what its publishers say are the “changing needs of its audience.”

The Times of Tunbridge Wells launched in March 2015 with an initial print run of 30,000 copies, later reduced to 15,000.

However its publishers One Media have now announced that the 28th February edition, pictured below, was the last to be published in print.

The title will shortly transition to a new online platform, www.timestwo.online, although this currently only displays a holding page.

One Media, which is part of the Elite Leisure Group, announced the move in a statement published on its existing website.

It said: “For nine years, the Times of Tunbridge Wells has been available as a free publication, distributed every Wednesday in both print and online formats.

“Throughout its tenure, the publication has remained dedicated to reporting on topics that matter most to its readers, navigating through turbulent times such as Brexit, the global pandemic, and wider economic challenges.

“As the world evolves, the Times of Tunbridge Wells recognises the importance of adapting to meet the changing needs of its audience.

“With this in mind, the decision has been made to transition from its printed edition to a new digital platform, timestwo.online. The last printed edition of the Times of Tunbridge Wells was distributed on February 28, 2024

“Despite this shift, the essence of the publication remains unchanged. The new timestwo.online will now also continue to provide coverage on culture, style, education, music, sport, property, retail, food, entertainment, fashion, beauty, and wellness, offering readers a dynamic and engaging online experience.”

Editor Eileen Leahy added: “We extend our deep gratitude to our loyal readers, advertisers and supporters for their unwavering encouragement over the years.

“We are excited to embark on this new chapter and invite our community to join us on our journey with timestwo.online, where we will continue to deliver positive news stories that inspire our residents, communities and businesses.”

Prior to its launch, One Media’s then editorial director Richard Moore stated his aim to “buck the trend” of newspaper closures with the intention of providing “serious local content reflecting the business and culture of the town”.

The print edition previously circulated within a 10-mile radius of the town.  It was not ABC audited but had an estimated readership of 37,500.