To: Thanet District Council

We, the undersigned, call upon Thanet District Council to promptly approve The Oval's planning application (F/TH/23/1614) and to halt any further unnecessary delays. This application seeks to transform The Oval Bandstand and Lawns into a vibrant community hub with a diverse range of facilities and improvements.

The proposed development includes:

1. A part change of use of the toilet block and store room to create an events bar and café, alongside necessary external alterations.

2. Utilisation of the amphitheatre for outdoor cinema, market events, concerts, sports, dance, or theatre performances.

3. Installation of a seating terrace, access ramps, and hand-rails within the bandstand amphitheatre to enhance accessibility.

4. Modifications to facilitate step-free access, including part demolition of external walls and installation of a timber fence and gates.

5. Addition of timber clad shipping containers for food and drink concessions, a community bookshop, staff welfare, and storage purposes.

6. Installation of a demountable perimeter fence and gates for temporary use until 31 December 2026, after which park railings will be installed.

7. Creation of a wellness garden featuring a free-to-access outdoor community gym.

8. Installation of a storage unit, a greenhouse, and necessary fencing and gates in the garden maintenance area.

These proposed changes are designed to foster community engagement, provide new recreational opportunities, and significantly improve local amenities.

However, The Oval’s planning application was validated on December 7th 2023, and has been pending with the Council for nearly eight months, far beyond the standard determination period of eight weeks. Despite numerous emails and voice messages to both planning and senior management, The Oval’s team have not received any response in nearly two months. The delay in determining this application has created uncertainty, severely affected capital fundraising opportunities, restricted employment opportunities for local people, and hindered the potential benefits for our community.

Now that the planning application has been called in for determination by the planning committee, we request that the committee members visit The Oval before making a decision. This visit will allow councillors to better understand the context and specifics of the proposals and appreciate why they are essential for the future prosperity of the venue and the local community.

We ask that the current administration at Thanet District Council discuss these delays in their next cabinet meeting and provide a clear explanation for the extended timeframe it has taken to make a determination. The community deserves transparency and accountability regarding the reasons for these delays.

We urge Thanet District Council to recognise the positive impact of this development and take immediate action to approve the planning application. Our community stands ready to embrace these enhancements and eagerly anticipates the numerous benefits they will bring.

By signing this petition, we show our support for The Oval’s vision and demand a swift and favourable decision from the Council to move forward with these much-needed improvements.