A contractor has started work on the next £1.8million phase of the Dreamland restoration project.

Coombs has been appointed to work on the former Sunshine Cafe and cinema entrance foyer.

The building firm won an open tender process in which Thanet District Council asked contractors to submit their interest in carrying out external and internal building work.

Coombs managing director John Healey said: “We are extremely proud to be awarded a further phase of restoration work on this important seafront landmark.

"We look forward to working with Thanet District Council’s team and will again employ local labour wherever possible, many of whom have a personal interest and desire to see the Dreamland complex restored to its former glory.

"The completion of phase two works will significantly contribute to the continued regeneration of Margate.”

The work marks the start of the second phase of major redevelopment at the Margate theme park.

It is being paid for by a coastal communities fund bid which TDC secured in 2014.

The former Sunshine Café renovation will include repairs to the original building, replacing windows, restoration to the fascia along with a new lift and neon lighting.

This work will turn the building into a seafront restaurant and the council are looking for a potential operator for the restaurant.

Restoration of the cinema foyer to its original 1930s design will also take place.

This will include new brass hand railings, metal entrance doors, Venetian plaster work to the ceiling, restoration of the pay desk, bespoke lighting and signage and restoration to the decorative atrium ceiling.

The council hope it will pave the way for further development of the entire Art Deco cinema complex.

TDC leader Cllr Chris Wells said: “We’re delighted to be working with Coombs, a local contractor, on such an iconic project.

"The restoration of Dreamland has always been about working towards the redevelopment of the entire site, to make it flow and work as a whole entertainment complex.

"This is the second major phase for the site and is a significant step forward which will further increase visitor enthusiasm in Dreamland as a destination.”

The work is due to begin despite Dreamland operators Sands Heritage Ltd owing more than £2.9million to creditors.