The Dreamland project has been awarded a £1.89m grant to bring its Grade II* listed Art Deco Cinema complex back into use.

The money will be used to restore the front of the picture house building at the amusement park, which is set to reopen next year after being closed since 2006.

Awarded from the Government’s Coastal Communities Fund, the cash will also convert the former Sunshine Cafe into a restaurant – a centrepiece of the reopening of the attraction in Margate.

It is hoped the refurbishment will bring the front facade back to its 1930s glory and put in place essentials like washrooms, staff training facilities and a kitchen area in the restaurant.

Once reopened, Dreamland is expected to create 171 jobs.

Coastal Communities Minister Penny Mordaunt said: “Revitalising our seaside towns to be vibrant economies year-round is part of the government’s long-term economic plan.

“The project to restore the derelict Art Deco Cinema site and build a new restaurant in Margate will bring new business opportunities that create local jobs, boost the local economy and attract visitors to the area.”

Thanet District Council leader Cllr Iris Johnston said: “Officers have worked extremely hard for years to secure this funding and I am delighted that our application has been successful.

“This significant grant will enable the council to prime the cinema area ready for external investment and ensure that the frontage of the site is restored to its former glory.”