Thanet District Council is delighted to announce a significant step forward in the regeneration of the iconic Margate Winter Gardens. Following the successful completion of all pre-conditions, the council is going ahead with a 999-year lease and a £4 million grant agreement with Westwood One Theatre. This marks a pivotal milestone for the much-loved venue.
The decision follows a thorough and transparent selection process, which in March 2025 identified Westwood One Theatre as the council’s preferred partner to refurbish and reopen the Winter Gardens.
The project is set to revitalise the Grade II listed building which is currently closed, transforming it into a vibrant hub for leisure, entertainment, and education. Key aspects of the refurbishment, as outlined in the RIBA Stage 2 proposals, include:
- Two main concert/theatre/event spaces: The main hall and the Queen’s Hall.
- A rooftop bar/restaurant and daytime café offering panoramic views.
- Four additional bars.
- A 100-place accredited drama school.
- A Further Education/Vocational Learning Centre accredited by NCFE.
- A 100-place Ofsted registered day nursery.
The council’s £4 million government grant funding, exclusive of VAT, will fund 50.6% of the estimated £7.9 million works costs, with Westwood One Theatre providing the balance through private sector match funding. This partnership represents excellent value for money for the council and is set to secure a sustainable future for the Winter Gardens.
Bob Porter, Director of Place at Thanet Council, commented: “This is a truly exciting time for Margate and the Winter Gardens. The council’s ambition has always been to bring this magnificent building back to life, and with Westwood One Theatre, we have found a partner whose vision and dedication align with ours. Their plans are comprehensive and innovative, promising a fantastic future for the venue and significant benefits for our community.”
Westwood One Theatre said: “The future for the Winter Gardens is an exciting one, and we feel privileged that we get to be at the helm of this incredible project. We are grateful to everybody who has been a part of creating this vision and look forward to re-opening this amazing building.”
Work is expected to start on site in the summer of 2026, subject to planning and listed building consent. The Main Hall and the Queen’s Hall are slated to open in April 2027.
The project is expected to contribute significantly to the economic growth and regeneration of Margate and Thanet, creating a thriving cultural destination and breathing new life into a heritage building. Detailed due diligence, including financial viability checks and risk mitigation strategies, has been completed to ensure the project’s successful delivery.
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Relevant links:
October 2025: Decision report – Winter Gardens, Margate – Lease and Grant Confirmation
March 2025: Thanet District Council identifies preferred partner for Margate Winter Gardens
Nov 2023: Council launches search for a new operator for the Margate Winter Gardens
