Walpole Bay Beach Facilities project
Sector
Coastal
Delivery team
AECOM
The Walpole Bay Beach Facilities project, commissioned by Thanet District Council, forms part of the Margate Town Deal’s Coastal Wellbeing initiative
The Walpole Bay Beach Facilities project, commissioned by Thanet District Council, forms part of the Margate Town Deal’s Coastal Wellbeing initiative, aimed at supporting sustainable regeneration and enhancing public use of the coastal environment. The scheme proposes a small-scale, carefully designed development to improve amenities at Walpole Bay, including a café, public toilets, showers and a flexible community space.
Located on Hodge’s Gap Promenade, the site benefits from proximity to the Grade II listed tidal pool and popular beach areas, but also presents challenges, including flood risk, environmental sensitivity and heritage considerations. The design responds by using three distinct building volumes — a raised café, a WC/shower block and a repurposed shipping container for community use — allowing flexibility, resilience and reduced visual impact.
Visualisation of the scheme, courtesy of AECOM & Jan Kattein Architects
The development has evolved through extensive public and stakeholder engagement, ensuring it meets community needs while addressing concerns around accessibility, environmental impact and overdevelopment. Key features include step-free access, flood mitigation through elevated structures, durable coastal materials, and a layout promoting natural surveillance and safety.
Overall, the project seeks to enhance coastal access, support health and wellbeing activities, and provide adaptable infrastructure that respects the character and ecological sensitivity of the site.
