Council to acquire property in Ramsgate, with Future High Street funding

Ramsgate was awarded £2.7m from the Future High Street Fund, to deliver two projects, each focused on encouraging people into Ramsgate town centre. 

The first project will provide workspace in the town centre for the creative industries. The council intends to acquire 5A Broad Street from its current owners; the building was formerly a haberdashery, which is now situated in new premises on King Street. 

The Broad Street property will be refurbished to provide workspace tailored to creative businesses. The new facility will also be home to a new skills and careers hub, delivered as part of the Ramsgate Levelling Up Fund Access to Opportunities project.

The council has appointed Jan Kattein Architects to develop the design of the new facilities, ensuring they will be accessible for stakeholders and residents. A planning application will be submitted over the coming weeks, and the scheme is expected to be completed in spring 2024.

Cllr Ruth Duckworth, Cabinet member for Regeneration and Property, said: “Thriving towns is a key priority for the council. Revitalising this former retail property will help to improve the look of Broad Street, and encourage more residents and visitors into the town centre. At the same time, it will provide much-needed premises for local creative businesses and community activities. 

“This project is a step on the path to breathing new life and vibrancy into Ramsgate. By improving the look of the town centre, residents and visitors will be encouraged to further explore the town, discovering the businesses and attractions that give Ramsgate its unique character.”

Douglas Chapman, owner of 5A Broad Street, said: “Following the Haberdashery & Fabric Shop’s move to our new home at 13B King Street, we are very pleased that our former premises on Broad Street will be used to provide a key space for the community. The plans for the building retain its creative history whilst offering a great opportunity for local organisations and individuals to progress their skills, opening them up to new possibilities.”

The second project within the Future High Street project is a highways improvement scheme. The aim of this project is to make it easier for pedestrians to walk to the town centre from the Harbour, by reducing the dominance of the road. This project is also due to be completed by spring 2024.

Read more about the Future High Street Fund on our website.

Artist’s impression of the new facilities