Dreamland s iconic scenic railway in 1921

Margate's Scenic Railway has been recognised as one of the most important listed buildings in the country.

The iconic centrepiece of Dreamland amusement park has had its listing upgraded to Grade II*, putting it into the top six per cent of listed buildings.

The move was made by English Heritage, following an application from Thanet District Council.

English Heritage describes the scenic railway as being of "more than special historic importance", saying its "special interest is clear and its survival is remarkable".

The structure is one of only two amusement rides in the country to be listed, the other being the water chute on the boating lake at East Park, Hull.

The scenic railway was the first ride to be protected, in 2002.

It is the oldest surviving rollercoaster in the country, the second oldest in Europe and the fourth oldest in the world.

The Dreamland Trust is building the world's first amusement park of historic rides at Dreamland Margate.

Restoration of the scenic railway will be at the heart of the multi-million pound project funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Sea Change and Thanet District Council.

The trust's chairman, Nick Laister said: "It is wonderful news that the Scenic Railway listing has been upgraded from Grade II to Grade II*.

"The scenic railway was listed Grade II in March 2002, and this amendment to its status is an entirely appropriate recognition for this rare and vulnerable structure."

Part of the wrecked Scenic Railway the day after a fire in 2008

Cllr Simon Moores from Thanet District Council, said: "We're delighted at this news, as the scenic railway thoroughly deserves its upgraded listing status.

"It's become something of an icon for both local people and visitors to Dreamland over the years, who have fond memories of the time they spent here.

"It's exceptionally well loved and will be a stunning centrepiece when Dreamland Margate opens to the public."

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