The Scenic Railway could rise from the ashes of the blaze that destroyed the centre part of the historic ride and be back in action by next Easter.

That is the optimistic prediction put forward by Thanet Council officers in a report to planning committee members this Wednesday.

It is hoped that the owners of the site, the Margate Town Centre Regeneration Company which is responsible for the listed roller coaster, will carry out the necessary rebuilding and repair work.

Council leader Cllr Sandy Ezekiel said: “Our first priority since the fire has been to get the Scenic Railway repaired.

"It’s clear that, although the fire was exceptionally serious, it is possible that it can be rebuilt and that’s exactly what we will be pushing for.

“Obviously it’s our hope that the owners of the site will carry out the work that is required without the need for any further action from the council."

But members will be asked to give officers the necessary powers to serve Statutory Notices to the owners under the Planning Act to ensure the structure is put back to the condition it was in at the time it was listed.

Cllr Ezekiel added: "We feel that this site is so important to Margate and the local community that we need to ensure that happens. That’s why planning committee is being asked to give officers these powers, so that if the repairs are not carried out by the owners, we can take legal action to ensure that the Scenic Railway is repaired and brought back into use. I’m sure that’s a move that local people will warmly welcome."

It is expected that the ride might be repaired by next Easter.

The fire destroyed approximately 20 per cent of the tracks, the workshop where the cars were housed and part of the ‘station’. The engine house, containing the electric motors and winding gear, survived.