Colliers seeks regeneration partner for Margate’s Winter Gardens
Colliers has been appointed by Thanet District Council to find a suitable development partner to help regenerate Margate’s Winter Gardens.
The 51,000 sq ft Grade II-listed entertainment venue closed its doors in August 2022, however Thanet District Council has expressed a desire to bring Winter Gardens back to its former glory.
The venue – which has hosted the likes of The Beatles and Laurel and Hardy in its storied history – is set to be redeveloped as part of the council’s £22.2m Margate Town Deal programme.
The seafront venue comprises two performance spaces; the main hall has a capacity of 2,150 standing people whilst the Queen’s Hall can host 600.
Paul Bugeja from Colliers Licensed & Leisure team said: “The council is seeking a partner which can honour the history of this venue, while also bringing it up to date and making it inviting to residents as well as visitors to Margate. We have seen how exciting regeneration plans for landmark buildings such as the Eastbourne Winter Gardens and De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill have revitalised coastal towns. We’re looking to secure a partnership which has a vision to reignite the entertainment offering in Margate and deliver on the expectations of the local community.”
Councillor Rick Everitt, leader of Thanet District Council, said: “We recognise how important this project is to local residents. I am optimistic that this partnership will lead to Thanet District Council realising its ambition to create a reinvigorated cultural and heritage landmark that will enrich the community and attract visitors for years to come.”