A popular UK seaside town is set to be transformed by a £22m renovation project. It will see the the creation of a new “creative quarter” as well as a beachfront cafe.
Margate, in Kent, was recently named the UK’s “best seaside town” and will now benefit from further improvement. It is known for being one of the nation’s trendiest seaside resorts and has the nickname “Shoreditch-on-Sea”. The Margate Town Deal, which is worth £22.2 million, was confirmed by the local council back in 2021 and plans have now been confirmed.
As reported by The Sun, a new cafe and community space will be built by the beach at Walpole Bay. The area is often overlooked by tourists who opt for the main Margate Sands Beach instead.
However, Walpole Bay is home to one of the largest tidal lilos in Europe as well as a long sandy beach. There are also other activities available such as mini-golf, tennis and indoor bowls.
The two-storey cafe will be built alongside new toilets and showers. The cafe will boast stunning coastal views with a designated route for pedestrians and cyclists.
Thanet District Council (TDC) said: “The proposed developments aim to provide a robust but minimal set of facilities to support enjoyment of Walpole Bay.
“The layout also seeks to provide operational flexibility to ensure that the current facilities can respond flexibly to demand.”
A new “creative quarter”, costing around £6.7 million, will also replace the former St George’s Garage in Margate. There will be studios and rehearsal spaces, designed by the Margate Creative Land Trust, available on Harold Road.
FDC added: “The transformation of Harold Road presents a significant opportunity to create high-quality creative workspaces that will generate sustainable employment opportunities, contribute positively to the local economy.
“By thoughtfully adapting the existing buildings, this development will provide much-needed affordable spaces for local creative businesses and practitioners, alongside inviting spaces for the wider community.”
Time Out named Margate the UK’s “best seaside town of the year”. It is a leading holiday destination, with visitors flocking to the resort for seaside family fun, arcades and historical charm.
Margate was also named as the UK’s most desirable coastal town for relocation in 2025. Brits have been attracted to the town’s affordability, with properties averaging around 26% cheaper than the average across Kent.
Paul Stewart, CEO of My Baggage, said: “Margate leads convincingly as the UK’s premier coastal relocation destination for 2025. Its first-place ranking in our Coastal Relocation Index demonstrates the perfect balance of affordability, quality of life and seaside charm.
“With impressive annual sunlight hours, moderate rainfall, excellent broadband connectivity and reasonable property prices, Margate represents the ideal coastal lifestyle without the premium costs associated with other seaside locations.”