Margate, Kent – Construction of a £1.3 million state-of-the-art skatepark at Ethelbert Crescent in Cliftonville is set to begin in October 2025. The Thanet District Council expects this project will bring significant benefits to local youth, tourism, and community wellbeing.
The skateboarding community has long awaited this new park in Margate.
Project managers anticipate the park’s readiness around mid-July 2026. It will occupy the site of a former disused crazy golf course, transforming a central seafront area into a lively public space.
The Margate Town Deal provides the primary funding for this investment in the town’s recreational infrastructure. The new skatepark will offer free public access. It includes a variety of bowls, ramps, and ledges. These elements serve all skill levels, from beginners to experienced skaters.
The development includes other amenities. These are new public toilets and a refreshment kiosk. These additions aim to improve the visitor experience and encourage longer visits.
Financial Commitment to Margate’s New Skatepark
The new Ethelbert Crescent skatepark requires considerable financial backing. Funds came from national regeneration initiatives, local council investment, and significant private backing.
Overall Investment Breakdown
The project’s estimated value is £1.1 million excluding VAT. Its total cost is £1.32 million including VAT. Of this, £750,000 comes from the Margate Town Deal. This multi-million-pound plan aims to spur regeneration across the town.
Other financial contributions support the project. Artist Tracey Emin provides £100,000 in match-funding. This shows her dedication to Margate’s cultural and community development. An additional £59,000 comes from Thanet District Council’s (TDC) capital programme. These funds were previously allocated for a Margate skatepark.
Additional Public Area Funding
In a recent decision, the council reallocated £350,000 from the existing Town Deal budget. This money will specifically improve the public space. It covers areas near both the new skatepark and the adjacent Jubilee Play Park. This reallocation raises the total investment in the skatepark and its immediate surroundings to £1.33 million. The aim is a high-quality facility with improved public areas around it.
Long-term Maintenance Plan
The council confirmed that income from the kiosk will be earmarked. This will create a specific fund. This fund will cover long-term management, upkeep, and future repair costs for the skatepark site. This strong funding structure aims to secure the facility’s long life and continued community benefit.
Project Oversight and Community Engagement
Thanet District Council supervises the skatepark’s construction. This includes managing the bid process and ensuring community input shapes the final design. Strong cooperation with local groups has been key to the project’s progress.
Design and Bid Process
The project uses a design-and-build contract method. A successful specialist contractor will handle both the detailed design and construction. This allows for a specific solution, suited to both the site and community needs.
The contract requires community consultations and engagement activities. These will happen during the design phase. Such discussions are vital. They ensure the design meets local user goals. They also aim to create a challenging yet inclusive environment for skaters of all ages and abilities. The deadline for bids for the design and build contract is August 26, 2025.
Key Community Advocates
The Margate Skateboard Club (MSC) played a central role in supporting and shaping this project. Local figures Dan Cates and Nic Powley lead the club. Their long-term efforts and cooperation with the council helped bring the new, purpose-built skatepark to life.
Management Structure
Earlier talks considered a Community Interest Company (CIC) for site management. However, TDC now proposes the council retain direct management of the skatepark, kiosk, and toilets. This decision aims to simplify operations and provide consistent supervision. It also ensures clear accountability for the facility’s long-term upkeep.
Impact and Past: Historical Context and Future Vision
The Ethelbert Crescent skatepark project carries past significance and promises many future benefits for Margate.
The Past of ‘Little Oasis’
The Ethelbert Crescent site has historical significance for Margate’s skateboarding community. In 2013, the local community took action. They built a DIY skatepark, called “Little Oasis,” on the same unused crazy golf course. This community effort quickly became a lively, unofficial spot for skaters.
Thanet District Council, however, removed this facility in 2014. The council cited unaddressed safety issues. The removal, though for regulatory reasons, created a void and much disappointment locally. The new official skatepark project directly addresses this past gap. It meets a long-standing need for a dedicated, safe, and professionally built space for skateboarding. This marks a major positive change for local enthusiasts.
Expected Community Benefits
The Ethelbert Crescent skatepark offers many expected benefits. These go beyond just recreation. It is likely to greatly improve the mental and physical health of young people. It provides a safe, active outlet. This helps reduce inactive lifestyles. It also builds a sense of community. Encouraging participation in organized activities can help reduce anti-social behavior.
Supporters believe the facility will help improve education and employment outcomes. It promotes discipline and teamwork. The park also aims to develop future skateboarding talent. This could produce athletes of national or international skill.
Economic and Tourism Impact
The project is also expected to boost local tourism. It will attract visitors and skateboarding fans from across the region. This will draw them to Margate throughout the year. More visitors should bring additional income to the local economy. Businesses, cafes, and shops nearby will benefit.
The skatepark revives an underused public area. It confirms its role as a valuable, regionally important asset. It also improves Margate’s image as a dynamic coastal town. The project reflects strong cooperation among local government, dedicated community groups, and individuals.
All work towards a shared goal for a more active Margate. Work starting in October 2025 marks a new, anticipated period for Ethelbert Crescent. It will change the area into a lively hub for activity and community pride for years ahead.