An application to carry out repairs to the Victorian Nayland Rock shelter in Margate will be discussed by councillors next week.
The Grade II listed shelter, off the Canterbury Road, suffered damage from bonfires, seating set alight and ripped out arm rests, in the early part of last year.
It is described by Historic England as “a good and particularly large example of a late Victorian/Edwardian seaside structure” and noted for its special literary association with TS Eliot and ‘The Waste Land’ poem which was published in 1922.
It was constructed in 1900 and restored in 1998, although the first shelter was recorded at the site between 1872 and 1896.
Repairs needed include the replacement of the ornate timber benches to the front and rear, the central screen, support framework between benches and the floor which was damaged by fire.
The central section facing the beach has three ornate timber armrests and three central panels behind the benches which have been affected by the fire; the opposite section facing inland towards Margate Station also has three ornate timber armrests affected. Eight central panels have been destroyed and three steps immediately in front leading to the fire damaged section.
A report to councillors says: “Repairs and installation of 6 new armrests and 11 central panels will bring the Victorian Shelter back to its original condition which will enhance the significance of this designated heritage asset and the surrounding area.”
The application, which is submitted by the council, will be discussed at a planning committee meeting on March 13.
