King Street, Ramsgate

Old commercial premises in King Street, Ramsgate

Thanet District Council purchased this property in January 2014 with the vision of removing a long term eyesore property, and supporting the King Street Regeneration.

This property was purchased as part of the the council’s Empty Property Programme supported by the Homes and Communities Avenue.

Character and appearance

The property is situated outside the core commercial centre of Ramsgate and is surrounded by commercial and residential units.  Some of the surrounding units have fallen into a state of major disrepair and are not only an eyesore but are also a danger to residents.  The King Street area is rich in character with high standards of design.

Living conditions

The units will be managed by Thanet District Council and will be let at affordable rent levels.  The residents will be assessed to ensure they can afford the rent, and other conditions are imposed that applicants have to meet before being offered a flat.

The mix of one, two and three bedroomed flats was devised to balance the community and support the economy and regeneration of Ramsgate.  It will encourage a mix of single people, couples and small families who will work, support local businesses and lead a metropolitan lifestyle within the centre of the town.

The new units have all been completed to a very high standard and all have a new internal layout, new windows, new kitchens and bathrooms, new roof, full insulation, new amenity outdoor space with secure cycle storage and a secure door entry system.

Conclusion

This conversion supports the council’s aims and objectives to make sustainable communities.  By removing the large empty derelict commercial unit and providing accommodation for use by families, it is helping to balance the property types, size and tenure.