Residents and visitors get a fresh perspective from the Stone Pier, Margate

Residents and visitors can enjoy a fresh perspective from the Stone Pier through a new pair of viewing binoculars that were installed last week (7 May 2014).

The binoculars have been generously donated by Mr Richard Stone in memory of his late father who lived in the area for many years. These binoculars are non-coin operated and have been positioned on the first bend of the stone pier allowing the user a panoramic view of the Margate or the sea for free.

As Margate’s historic Stone Pier is in a conservation area Thanet District Council arranged the process and lodged a planning application for the weather proof apparatus to help realise the idea. Happily this was approved as it was judged to be a beneficial addition to the pier and would improve the quality of the visitor experience.

Donor, Richard Stone said, ‘My sister Jill, who lives in Australia, and I are glad that we have been able to donate these binoculars to Margate’s residents and visitors. Our late father Eric Stone was a boatman, as well as being a member of the pilot boat crew, and spent many happy years in the harbour area of Margate, so these viewing binoculars are donated in his memory. We also wish to thank Ms Jean Reynolds of the TDC Foreshore Team for her help in organising the siting of the binoculars on the pier.’

Thanet District Council’s Tourism Manager, Paula Harbidge said, ‘This generous donation is a fantastic addition to Margate Harbour and I’m sure they will bring entertainment to residents and visitors alike. These tourist binoculars not only improve the visitor experience of the pier but also shows off the stunning coastline this area has to offer.’

For more information about visiting Margate and the rest of Thanet please visit www.visitthanet.co.uk