News Blast: Ramsgate Clock House renovation project progresses

The latest update on Ramsgate's slow moving plans to renovate the harbour's Clock House, plus new walking routes, honorary degrees, grassroots music support and more.

Thanet District Council has approved its own plans for a multi-million pound refurb of the Grade II listed Clock House in Ramsgate. Using government funding, the building will be converted into a cafe, museum and community space. The neighbouring Pier Yard will also be converted from a car park to a space for markets and other outdoor events. The renovation project was previously halted in 2023 after a bid for National Lottery funding was rejected. 

A new section of the King Charles III England Coast Path has opened in Kent. The 28 mile stretch runs along the edge of the Isle of Sheppey, and can be accessed from Swale Railway Station (around an hour by train from Thanet). You could also, if you really want, walk most of the way there, starting on the Viking Trail. Find out more.

Pop star PinkPantheress and filmmaker Andrea Arnold are among the list of people set to receive honorary degrees from the University of Kent this summer. They will receive their doctorates in music and the arts respectively in a ceremony at Canterbury Cathedral on July 22. Find out more.

Where Else in Margate has announced that it is relaunching the Kent Pop Exchange with a programme of gigs, events an workshops focussed on developing the local grassroots music scene. The nine month initiative is funded by Arts Council England, meaning workshops and talks will be free to attend for musicians aged 16-30. A launch event is set to take place on July 24, with the full programme announced in August.

The Piecycle Coast-to-Coast challenge has smashed its £4000 fundraising target. The 240 mile bike ride saw three youth workers from Pie Factory Music ride across the UK to raise funds to support the youth centre’s bid to buy its building from Kent County Council. While the ride was completed earlier this month, you can still donate here. 

The Tracey Emin Foundation has announced its 12-week live in residency which will take place from mid-September at Victoria House in Margate. Emerging artists based in the UK, who will have graduated from their degree or equivalent course this summer can apply. Apply by July 12.

Reign Bar in Broadstairs is up for sale. Located on Albion Street, the bar and terrace comes with a 19 year lease. It has a guide price of £160,000. Check it out on Rightmove.