Work has begun this week to restore the communal garden in Dalby Square, Margate, to its former glory.

Improvements to the sea end of the square began on Monday, aiming to remove the car park and transform the area for residents and visitors to enjoy.

An extensive public consultation took place in autumn 2016, with responses revealing that 98% of people had an interest in the environment of Dalby Square, and that 70% would be happy if the car park was removed to recreate a garden that once existed.

The majority of those who responded said the car park, installed 60 years ago, was an eyesore and a poor use of space.

Cllr Lesley Ann Game, cabinet member for housing and safer neighbourhoods at Thanet District Council, said: "Dalby Square is at the historic heart of Cliftonville West and the car park has a negative effect on the townscape of the square and clifftop.

"The proposed communal garden will act as a focal point and contribute towards the wellbeing of the vibrant local community.

"From the mid-19th century, the residents of Dalby Square have placed great value on the garden enclosure as an open green space and important social and recreational facility so it’s great to be restoring it to its original purpose."

Improvement works will see an expanse of lawn replace the current car park, and the plantation of trees and colourful plants around the square.

The current bottle banks will remain in place, with a change in access so they can be emptied from the road side.

Dalby Square is one of only two surviving enclosed garden squares in Margate. This work, funded by Thanet District Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund, is intended to enhance the area and enrich community life.