A DERELICT and underused area in Margate's old town may become a thriving cultural centre.

Plans for Queens Arms Yard have been submitted by Thanet council for a mixed use development of three and four storey buildings, which will house a café, bar or restaurant, along with 10 retail units or art studios and a total of 24 apartments.

Artists have been involved in helping to draw up the plans of the retail units and art studios to ensure that they meet their needs.

Cllr Roger Latchford, cabinet member for economy and culture, said: "The council and Margate Renewal Partnership are working hard to regenerate the area and a crucial part of that work is the creation of a cultural quarter in the Old Town.

"There is no doubt that the work is starting to pay dividends there, with new businesses opening all the time and increasing occupancy levels.

"These plans will need to be considered carefully to ensure that the best scheme is achieved for everyone. The development of this site will help to bring an area that has been a target for fly tippers for some time back into use."