Plans to convert the former public toilets at Westbrook Prom into two flats have been approved by Thanet council.
The toilet block, below Sea View Terrace, will become a one-bedroom flat and one studio. The site forms part of the Margate Seafront Conservation Area, designated in 1997
Previously owned by Thanet council, the building has been auctioned several times.
In 2015 the toilets were sold for £215,000, which was seven times more than the original guide price of £30,000.
The block was put up for auction again in 2018 with a guide price of £400,000 reflecting the granting of planning permission in 2017 for the build of a three-bed home and ‘beach cave’.
The toilets were put up for sale again in 2021 with a guide price of £230,000.
The block is enveloped by the Margate Seawall and planners for the original approved application said heritage research suggested embedding of the site into the Seawall was a strong concept to develop a ‘Seawall House’.
The facade is currently boarded-up and has graffiti, while the building requires temporary structural props for support.
The application from Marc Turnier of Arcvelop Architecture Ltd said: “The building is currently divided into two main areas: the old gents’ WCs, ladies’ WCs. The inside of the building is in a dilapidated condition. The facade of the building is also in a state of disrepair, displaying graffiti, boarded-up windows and cracks in the stucco.
“The proposed scheme intends to convert the existing structure into 2 separate dwellings. This application proposes no external works apart from making good of the existing structure and restoring the windows, doors and other elements to building regulations. The existing structure has the potential to be fully restored.
“The proposed internal layouts provide a high quality living accommodation for all future residents. Each dwelling is provided with a quality open plan space with large living, dining and kitchen amenities. The windows of the proposed scheme will be replaced by shop front glass and fixed to ensure privacy and protection.”
In a delegated report a Thanet council planning officer said: “The area surrounding the site is mixed in nature with a variety of leisure and residential uses.
“The conversion of the public conveniences to residential is in keeping with the existing uses and would not have an adverse impact on the character of the area.
“It is noted that this application seeks to convert the former public convenience building and a structural survey has been submitted which concludes that, with some modifications/alterations, the building is capable of conversion.
“Whilst the building is currently in a poor state of repair, it has some architectural interest and it is noted that the proposed conversion seeks to utilise existing windows and doors with no other works to alter its external appearance.”
The plan was approved last Friday (April 4).
So TDC yet again sell Thanet Residents investments at a thumping great loss to the residents purse. The owners since TDC sold have made a great profit after expenses. This could have been invested in such things as the Theatre Royal or projects on Ramsgate Sea Front.
COULD NOT ARGEE -MORE WELL SAID.
I was going to say that TDC are taking the p-ss, but as they’re selling off many of the toilets, they’re actually doing the opposite!
The greatest mystery to me is how humanity has apparently evolved to no longer need to go to the toilet !
So many former toilet blocks have been either been demolished or converted to some other use. Every car park, every park or recreation ground, every beach or bay, and every popular or trafficked area would have a public convenience. Now the public toilet is a rarity.
No wonder so many alleys and alcoves stink of urine . . .