Swimmers have been warned about getting dragged underwater at a popular tidal pool after a sluice gate was damaged by a storm.

Cllr Barry Manners says there is a danger of sea-goers being seriously injured or drowning at the site in Walpole Bay, Margate.

Thanet District Council (TDC) has also told people not to enter the pool until further notice with survey work set to take place this week to assess the problem.

Cllr Manners, who represents the Cliftonville East ward, said: “One of the sea sluices appears to have been damaged during the recent storm.

“There is a danger of swimmers being dragged into the sluice which could easily result in serious injury or drowning.

“It is not recommended the pool be used until TDC has had the opportunity to do a proper assessment and repair.”

Last month TDC revealed an ambitious project to transform the beachfront with a new pavilion cafe and repair a historic lift.

The plans put forward for the Walpole Bay area include improvements along the promenade while boasting new facilities including space to host yoga and art classes.

Building work is estimated to cost £1.8m while a further £500,000 has been allocated for a programme to promote the benefits of coastal activities – taking the total investment to £2.3m.

TDC was awarded £22.2 million of government funding for the Margate Town Deal in March 2021 and the funding contributes to a long-term regeneration programme which is due to be delivered by March 2026.

With the funding committed to the development and rejuvenation of the sandy beach at Walpole Bay, it is hoped the works could commence by late 2024 with hopes of completing the project by summer 2025.

A TDC spokeswoman says the storm on Friday caused damage to a number of areas around the Thanet coast.

“This includes the Walpole Bay tidal pool in Cliftonville which is currently closed,” she said.

“Residents should not enter the pool until further notice and signs are in place advising the public not to enter.

“The council is also providing a presence on-site during the day, except for the high tide period when the pool is submerged, to ensure that all beach users are aware.

“We will carry out surveys to the tidal pool tomorrow (Wednesday), which is the next daylight low tide.

“The necessary works will be undertaken as soon as possible.”