Edgar Road
Principle of Development
These four large terraced properties were bought by the council in 2023 using the remaining funding from the Live Margate Programme. The buildings will be converted to affordable housing. Early work to support the scheme has been funded by the Brownfield Land Release Fund (BLRF).
Planning permission was granted in December 2025 to change the use of the property from hotel/hostel use to 10 self-contained flats. There will be 6no 2-bed and 4no 3-bed apartments. These will be kept by the council for affordable long term rental to people with a housing need.
Character and appearance
The Cliftonville area comprises a variety of homes, rich character and design. It is a good example of historic seaside architecture. These buildings are within the Edgar Road and Sweyn Road Conservation Area.
This substantial property is due to undergo an extensive programme of renovation and restoration work. Once early work has been completed, work will begin on internal conversion to divide the property into apartments. The layout will be changed as little as possible, but will provide attractive living spaces. Externally, the overall appearance of the building will be more in keeping with the street scene.
Living conditions
This project will create ten much needed good quality dwellings. They will be let by the council at affordable rents to those in housing need. Occupiers of the development will enjoy a high standard of accommodation, with good room sizes, with plenty of natural light and ventilation. There will be a mixture of private and shared outdoor space. There are plenty of nearby amenities, including shopping, bus routes, seafront and beach access all within a few minutes walk.
Consultation with local residents
A letter was distributed to 125 addresses – commercial and residential – in the local area prior to a public consultation event. The event was held in May 2025, before development work began, to enable residents to view plans and ask questions.
Renovation work
Built in the late 19th century, two of the four buildings formed a private dwelling, and the other two was a school for young ladies. All became part of the Bicken House Hotel which operated between the 1930s and 1990s. In the mid 1990s the buildings became a women’s refuge centre. In recent decades, the property has not been maintained to a high standard, and a large programme of work is needed.
The property is being converted into six no 2-bed and four no 3-bed apartments. Planned work includes:
- New roof
- New internal layout
- Kitchens and bathrooms
- New windows and doors
- Insulation
- Rehabilitation of outside amenity areas
- Renewable technologies including solar panels
Conclusion
This development, creating units of family housing of a high quality will contribute positively to the local environment. Ten new additional households will move in to upgraded accommodation which will enhance the Conservation Area. Safety work to make the building watertight began in 2026 and the project is likely to be completed within 18 to 24 months.
