A Victorian shelter in Margate where a group of homeless people have been living has been boarded up today.

The decision comes after Thanet District Council had reason to believe the shelter was becoming a danger to public safety.

It will now undergo a process of repair work, with maintenance and cleaning of the area a priority.

A TDC spokesman said: "While it is not a step we take lightly, unfortunately due to damage, vandalism, graffiti and unsanitary conditions, the shelter has had to be temporarily boarded up while essential deep cleaning, repair and maintenance is carried out ready for the peak season.

"This action was carried out following reports of intimidation towards members of the public and drug paraphernalia having being recently found, which has led to increased public safety concerns which has prompted a need for immediate action."

The council also say that all but one of the homeless people previously living in the shelter in Marine Drive, opposite Margate’s Main Sands, have now been given accommodation.

Marilyn Hunt, 63, said: "It is a great shame, from an architectural point of view it represents the seaside and it is covering up something lovely.

"It is a pity they couldn't have turned it into a room where the homeless people could go and get advice or find someone that could help them.

"I felt really sorry for the people under there when it was really cold they must have been freezing so it is nice to think they have somewhere to stay now."

The spokesman said: "Thanks to the support of a number of local organisations and the wider community, we are pleased to confirm that housing solutions have been identified and offered to all of the individuals who were residing in the Marine Drive Shelter in Margate.

"Currently all but one person has accepted this support and those previously sleeping in the shelter now have accommodation."

TDC say they are continuing to try and help support the remaining one individual.

They have so far refused the offer of help.

More than 60 separate visits have been made to the shelter and help has been offered by Thanet District Council, Kent County Council, Kent Police, Porchlight, Turning Point drug and alcohol outreach and a number of voluntary organisations and charities.

The spokesman said: "We are also aware of recent anti-social behaviour from others who have been using the shelter to consume alcohol and cause a nuisance, but aren’t actually homeless.

"A possession order has been issued by the court and warnings given to those who have been committing anti-social behaviour in the area."

While the boards are in place, artists will be undertaking a temporary installation on them to brighten up the area.

The council say they are grateful to the support that the public have shown to these vulnerable people.

If you are concerned about someone who is homeless or at risk of homelessness you can contact the council's housing options team for advice on 01843 577277 or housing@thanet.gov.uk