Public invited to feedback on new facilities proposed at Walpole Bay

Thanet District Council is inviting members of the public to learn about the regeneration projects taking place at Walpole Bay. Part of the Margate Town Deal, proposed plans include improved access, and new beach facilities.

A public drop-in session will take place on Thursday 5 October between 2pm and 7pm, at the Walpole Bay Hotel, Fifth Avenue, Cliftonville, Margate CT9 2JJ.

This is an opportunity for local residents and stakeholders to meet and engage with the council’s project team. There will be boards on display showing sketches of the proposed concepts for the new beach, and wellbeing facilities. Architects and designers will be on hand to answer questions and there will be an opportunity to give initial feedback about some of the information on display.

Cllr Ruth Duckworth, Cabinet member for Regeneration and Property said: “The Margate Town Deal consists of many projects. Improving the access to Walpole Bay is a really important part of what we plan to make happen. Coming along to this drop in event will give people a chance to see potential solutions very early on in the project process. We want people to share their thoughts on where the new building could go and also what the building could best be used for.

“At this stage there won’t be final designs to choose from or details about the facilities but that will come later and there will be a chance to comment on those before they go to planning. In the meantime, I’d urge people to visit the displays now and be part of the journey so that we make the right decisions for Walpole Bay’s future, together.”

Following the event, the information boards will remain on display at the Walpole Bay Hotel for two weeks. This is a chance for anyone unable to attend the event on Thursday 5 October to view the boards and share their feedback. The exhibition will be open daily from Monday 9 October for people to drop in between 10am and 7pm. It will close at 7pm on Monday 23 October.

It will also be possible to submit feedback and thoughts during this period, both online and via paper surveys. There will be further opportunities for comment ahead of any designs reaching the planning stage.

Thanet District Council was awarded £22.2million of government funding for the Margate Town Deal in March 2021. The funding contributes to a long-term regeneration programme which will be delivered by March 2026.

There is more information about the Margate Town Deal projects on the council’s website.