The future of beleaguered Northdown House could become clearer on Wednesday (December 10) when local people find out about options for the historic landmark.

Residents will be asked at a public meeting at the Georgian manor house if it should be for community use or social housing.

Northdown House had been identified by its owners, Thanet council, as being surplus to requirements. However, a decision on the Cliftonville property was deferred after almost 2,000 people objected to its disposal.

Cllr Clive Hart, ward councillor for Cliftonville West, said the options being presented by the authority were "another step forward" in retaining the building as a community asset.

Cllr Roger Latchford, cabinet member for culture and the economy, said he hoped people would take the opportunity to work with the council to "establish something the community can be proud of".

Cllr Iris Johnston, ward councillor for Margate Central, questioned whether the building could be sold. A covenant emerged earlier this year, stating that it should be for communal use. The building was left to the people of Margate and Cliftonville by the Friend family in 1937.

Wednesday’s informal consultation takes place at Northdown House between 3pm and 7pm.