A Victorian shelter which was boarded up after a group of homeless people lived there has reopened today.

The shelter in Marine Drive, Margate, has been refurbished and cleaned with litter, syringes and graffiti also removed.

The decision to board up the shelter came in March after Thanet District Council said they had reason to believe it was becoming a danger to public safety.

Cabinet member for community services Cllr Lin Fairbrass said: “It’s great to see the shelter now fully repaired and open once again for the public to enjoy.

"A significant amount of work was required to make this structure safe and clean and the results speak for themselves.

"The temporary closure of the shelter was not a decision taken lightly but was necessary due to the extent of damage that had been caused. We’re grateful to the patience of the local community while this work has been underway.”

A group of homeless people had been living in the Victorian shelter in Marine Drive, opposite Margate’s Main Sands, for several months before it was boarded up.

Before work commenced, a number of organisations, carried out 92 separate visits to the group of individuals who had gathered at the shelter to provide housing advice and placements to those who were homeless. All but one accepted the support.

Cllr Fairbrass said: “Along with a number of organisations we worked extremely hard to support the individuals who were gathering in the shelter.

"A total of 92 visits were made to the shelter to provide advice, guidance and housing options for those in need of this support.

"This is the sign of a caring council, committed to improving the health and wellbeing of our local residents.”

Repair work and repainting was also carried out with lighting fixed and arm rests re-instated.

The council say finishing touches to the paint will be made after the hoarding is removed.

If you are concerned about someone who is homeless or at risk of homelessness contact 01843 577277 or email housing@thanet.gov.uk