Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: February 16, 2026

Purpose: The Cabinet considered a report recommending the disposal of 5 surplus property assets: the former toilet block at Minnis Bay; Margate Media Centre (but not to complete a sale before June 2026); land at Vale Square Gardens, Ramsgate; Retort House, Broadstairs; land at Minnis Bay Restaurant, Birchington; and a marketing exercise for Marina Car Park 3, Ramsgate (the results of which will be brought back to Cabinet for consideration).   The disposal of surplus assets is crucial in generating capital receipts, which is essential for funding the council’s approved Capital Programme as set out in the Medium Term Financial Plan.

Content: Cabinet approved the following:   1.  The open market disposal of the former toilet block, Minnis Bay;   2.  The disposal of Margate Media Centre, Margate;   3.  The asset disposal of Vale Square Gardens, Ramsgate, by way of private treaty to the current licensee;   4.  The open market disposal of Retort House, Broadstairs;   5.  The disposal of land at Minnis Bay Restaurant, by way of private treaty to the lessee;   6.  The marketing exercise for Marina Car Park 3, Ramsgate, and then report back to Cabinet.

Reasons for the decision: The assets have been identified surplus to council requirements. There is cost and risk to the council associated with retaining these properties on a long term basis. Their disposals will generate crucial capital receipts needed to fund the agreed council’s capital expenditure programme.

Alternative options considered: The options to retain the assets and repurpose them were all rejected because they would be financially imprudent, fail to generate the necessary capital funds for the council, and would not address the financial or safety risks associated with retaining the properties on a long term basis.