As set out in the Town Investment Plan, the aim of this project is to better stitch together Margate’s heritage assets, town centre, coast, and residential areas. This will help residents and visitors access more of the town, more easily.
The project will deliver a series of changes to parts of the highway, with attention paid to improving the pedestrian experience and accessibility of different parts of the town. There will be a focus on better connections and pedestrian routes.
In addition to any changes to the highway, a series of public realm improvements will be made. They include new toilet facilities in Margate and greening projects, to coincide with new and improved wayfinding and signage.
Project outcomes:
- Reduce vehicle dominance on key routes and crossings.
- Provide new and improved connections for pedestrians to explore different areas of the town.
- Help people to swap car journeys for active transport and walk or cycle more often, especially around Northdown Road and the town centre.
- Increase visitor numbers and spend beyond the current key tourist sites, as improved wayfinding encourages discovery.
- Improve perceptions of public realm safety and connectivity as well as air quality.
- Reduce health inequalities.
The Margate Wayfinding project will look at the current signs and maps between the town centre, Cliftonville, and the coast. Our goal is to improve accessibility and navigation. This will make it much easier for residents and visitors to explore the area and engage with it.
The project will look at how routes can be made clearer, safer, and more welcoming. We also want to make them more engaging. This will help people move effortlessly between different parts of the town and the seafront.
A key focus will be on:
- New experiences: Creating new and unexpected experiences. These will encourage people to slow down, reconnect, and rediscover the coastline and the wider offer Margate provides.
- Strengthening connections: Linking up local businesses, cultural spots, and experiences along the way.
This project is funded by the UK Government through the Local Regeneration Fund.
Where are we now?
We are currently in Phase 1. This stage is dedicated to the Strategy and Design Development of Margate’s new wayfinding system. This phase ensures we have a rock-solid plan. During this time, the lead designers and strategists will conduct research, explore concepts, and test ideas.
The findings will help to shape a clear vision for Margate’s wayfinding. We want to make it more accessible and engaging. It must also be reflective of the town’s unique character. Phase 1 aims to be completed by Summer 2026.
By Summer 2026, Phase 1 will deliver:
- A comprehensive wayfinding strategy: A clear roadmap for how people will navigate Margate. It is based on deep research into foot traffic and local movement patterns.
- Design concepts and visual identity: A suite of design templates. They will capture Margate’s unique character while remaining highly accessible and easy to read.
- A proven “vision” for the town: This involves tested ideas and prototypes. They will ensure the final signs and maps work for everyone, including people who live here and visitors alike. This will happen before they go into production.
We are partnering with Whybrow Studio, a local Margate business. By doing this, we are ensuring the design isn’t just functional. It will also be authentic. Their team understands the specific barriers on our streets, as well as our “hidden gems.” This ensures the final strategy feels like a natural part of the community.
What happens after the design is developed?
The project will move to Phase 2. In this phase, the council will engage with contractors. They will price, manufacture, and install what has been designed.
What is the programme for this work?
Margate Wayfinding timeline |
|
| Design consultant appointment | Summer 2025 |
| Phase 1 (completed) | Summer 2026 |
| Phase 2 (started) | Autumn 2026 |
| Project completion | Summer 2027 |
Is there any public engagement?
Yes. We believe that the best wayfinding system is one built on real experiences. It should reflect the everyday lives of the people who use it. We have two key periods for you to get involved:
- Tuesday 30 June 2026: The council will run a workshop for local businesses. This session will help everyone understand where we are in the project. They will also give people the opportunity to provide feedback. This input will help shape the final proposals.
- Summer 2026: We will launch an online survey. This will focus mainly on getting feedback from visitors. You will also find postcards in local shops and businesses across Margate. People can pick these up to easily find and open the online survey.
- Summer 2026: We will run a broader programme of activities. We are currently finalising the details. This stage will be open to residents, the general public, and visitors.