A council has revealed how it plans to spend £1.5m of government cash on a series of projects aimed at sprucing up parts of the district.
Thanet District Council says the Pride in Place Impact Fund is intended to deliver “immediate and visible improvements” before a March 2027 deadline.
The authority has focused on schemes in Margate and Broadstairs, with additional support proposed for rural villages across Thanet.
Officials say projects must meet at least one of three aims: revitalising community spaces, improving public areas such as green and coastal locations, or helping regenerate high streets and town centres.
Residents are now being asked to have their say during a four-week engagement period expected to begin in the week starting March 2.
One of the main proposals would see refurbishment work carried out at the Margate Museum and the adjoining Old Town Hall.
The Grade II-listed buildings have needed repairs for some time, with scaffolding previously installed to carry out roof and joinery works and ensure the historic structures are preserved.
The Old Town Hall dates back to 1897 and was originally used as a police station and magistrates’ court before later becoming home to civic functions and the town’s museum.
The council says the latest funding would help secure the long-term future of the landmark site.
Investment is also proposed for Pierremont Park in Broadstairs, where historic features could be refurbished and access improved.
The town centre park has been the focus of debate in recent years after proposals to build homes on land linked to the site drew strong local opposition.
TDC put the application forward itself, but it was voted down by councillors after backlash from neighbours and park users.
Earlier this month, campaigners were left “reeling” after the council put the park depot on the market.
Elsewhere, the Sarah Thorne Theatre is earmarked to receive £50,000 so the theatre company can begin renovations on the building it recently purchased from Kent County Council.
The authority listed Broadstairs Memorial Hall – which holds the theatre – as an asset for disposal, as it was no longer using the site.
This sparked a campaign – backed by Dame Judi Dench – to halt the sale and safeguard its future.
A further £100,000 would be ring-fenced for parish and town councils in Thanet’s villages.
Eight local authorities will be invited to bid competitively for grants of up to £20,000 for capital projects linked to the scheme’s objectives.
The council confirmed Ramsgate is not included in the latest proposals because the town has already secured £20m through the wider Pride in Place Programme.
Cllr Ruth Duckworth, cabinet member for regeneration and property at the council, said: “This £1.5 million investment is a fantastic opportunity to breathe new life into some of the places that hold significant meaning for the local community.
“I am thrilled to see the Margate Museum and Pierremont Park at the heart of these proposals. These are more than just landmarks; they are central to our community’s pride and heritage.
“By investing in these assets, we aren’t just fixing roofs or paving paths; we’re visibly demonstrating improvements which will instil a sense of pride in our place.
“By asking local people to input ideas on how these spaces should be used, we hope they will feel invested in the work we put into them.”
Final recommendations will be reviewed by a panel including local MPs before going to the council’s cabinet for approval on April 30.
People can find more information and share their views via the Your Voice Thanet engagement website once the consultation opens.
