Residents, businesses and visitors have been asked for their ideas to improve two derelict spaces in Margate Old Town. This consultation work was led by the environmental regeneration charity Groundwork Kent & Medway in November and December.
The two sites that are being given the opportunity for a makeover are The Queens Arms Yard and the piece of land behind Margate Media Centre (off Cobbs Place). Both are currently disused and look unsightly but could be transformed into attractive community green spaces.
Groundwork’s ‘Walkie Talkies’, a team of local people with good social networks and a real understanding of the area, asked local people for their ideas for the two sites in December 2010, with the aim of encouraging a sense of community ownership so that the spaces can be developed to their full potential, enhancing the Old Town, whilst providing somewhere for locals to use and enjoy.
Initial ideas for the two green spaces included:
Groundwork will be employing their newly-recruited ‘Team Green’, a group of ten local, formerly unemployed young people, to carry out the agreed improvements. Working with experienced supervisors, these young people will have the opportunity to develop a range of practical construction and horticultural skills whilst undertaking this and other clean-up work in the town.
This work has been commissioned by Margate Renewal Partnership, as part of the wider regeneration of the town. Programme Director, Derek Harding, said: “In the run-up to the opening of Turner Contemporary in April next year, we have identified our 10 top priorities to improve the appearance of the town and support the gallery in its first year. These two spaces are part of the plan. Next year will be a really exciting year for Margate and we need to ensure that we're ready to welcome visitors to the gallery and the world's media”.
Jo Sage, Groundwork’s East Kent Development Officer said, “The planned improvements to the town will not only benefit the tourists who are anticipated to come and visit the fantastic new gallery, but will also be welcomed by the many Margate residents who would like to see their town restored to its former glory! It is great to be able to use our Team Green to undertake this work and provide much-needed employment for local young people.”
For further Information:
Contact Jo Ursell, Community Development Officer on 07779 361925 or Jo Sage, East Kent Development Officer, Groundwork Kent & Medway, 48 Canterbury Street, Gillingham, ME7 5UN. E-mail: Jo.sage@groundwork.org.uk Website: http://www.groundwork-km.org.uk/
