Thanet District Council is seeking innovative proposals to redevelop a significant seafront site at Marina Car Park 3, located on Marina Esplanade in Ramsgate. The approximately one-acre plot, situated along the Eastern Undercliff, is currently used for parking and is described as one of the largest remaining unbroken seafront locations in the area, close to Ramsgate Main Sands and a short walk from the Royal Harbour.
The council aims to secure the best value for local taxpayers while fostering high-quality improvement projects along the coast. Developers are encouraged to submit both conditional (subject to planning) and unconditional freehold proposals. Potential uses for the site are broad, encompassing commercial businesses, a hotel, housing, or leisure spaces.
Cllr Ruth Duckworth, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Property, highlighted the site's potential: “Marina Car Park 3 is a wonderful seafront location, but it is currently underused. We want to see this site transformed to bring real long-term benefits to people living in Ramsgate and across Thanet.” She added that any revenue generated from the sale would be reinvested into council buildings and property supporting vital services in the district.
Cllr Duckworth emphasised the council's open-minded approach to the site's future, stating, “We are keeping an open mind on what could go here – whether that means a hotel, shops, or sports and leisure spaces. This site offers an exciting opportunity to boost our local economy and build on the momentum we’re already seeing in Ramsgate.” She urged interested parties to review the details and submit ambitious proposals.
All submitted proposals will undergo an informal tender process. Assessments will consider not only the offered price but also the certainty of funding, the proposed land use, and the developer's track record. Prospective developers can request official bidding documents by emailing propertyandassetmanagement@thanet.gov.uk. Further information on regeneration projects in the district is available at thanet.gov.uk/services/regeneration.
