Search begins for new operator for iconic venue

Margate Winter Gardens closed its doors as a venue in August 2022

A search for a new operator for an iconic entertainment venue on the Kent coast has begun.

Margate Winter Gardens closed its doors in August 2022 with no decision made on its future.

Now Thanet District Council, which owns the venue, said it will consider proposals covering a range of leisure uses for the property.

Residential uses will not be considered for the site, a spokesman added.

A spokesman said the council was "seeking offers from potential partners who can commit to restoring the Winter Gardens and retaining its importance as a leisure asset to the local community".

Commercial real estate firm Colliers is now promoting the site to potential partners and gauging interest in the venue.

With its Ionic columns and domed roof, the Winter Gardens was a bold statement for Margate when it opened in 1911.

The Beatles and Laurel and Hardy are amongst the artists who have performed at the venue.

The Beatles performed on six consecutive nights in July 1963

All parties viewing the property will be invited to submit an outline of their vision for the building and how they intend to use it.

A shortlist will then be created with selected organisations invited to submit a more comprehensive proposal.

Councillor Rick Everitt, leader of Thanet District Council, said: “We are particularly interested to see proposals that really embrace the historic importance and design of the building, while enhancing Margate’s leisure offer.

“We recognise that the people of Thanet are passionate about bringing the Winter Gardens back as a leisure or performance space.

The venue was one of the UKs most popular venues for much of the 20th Century

"We are committed to finding the right partner or operator."

The council has engaged a clearance company which has started to prepare for the renovation process.

Any items of cultural value have already been removed, and are now in safe storage.

In addition some items will be sold at auction.

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