Margate, a seaside town in Kent, has undergone significant transformation over the past decade, earning it the nickname 'A place of two halves'. The influx of wealthier residents and tourists has brought about an art-led renewal, with boutiques, restaurants, and galleries springing up in its old town. However, this gentrification has also left a divide between the long-time residents and newcomers, with some feeling that their voices are not being heard.
The town's strong brand has attracted celebrities such as Madonna, who recently visited one of Margate's Italian restaurants, Cantina Caruso. The pop star described the town as "heaven" and "energised by creativity", but local resident Dan Thompson, an artist who has lived in Margate for 20 years, feels that this idealisation does not reflect the full story.
Thompson moved to Margate's "roughest streets" a decade ago but was priced out of the area due to rising prices. He now lives with friends and is struggling to afford housing. Despite the influx of wealthier residents, Thompson believes that gentrification has brought about both positive and negative effects. While it has created new business opportunities for local tradesmen, it has also led to increased housing costs and homelessness.
Other locals, including Amy Holbourne and her niece, have expressed similar concerns. Holbourne works on the high street and hopes that Madonna's visit will bring in more business, but she is critical of the council's handling of the social housing crisis. Her niece, who has been waiting for a place to live for three years, feels that there needs to be a "real sort-out" from the council.
The town's art scene is thriving, with local residents and newcomers alike contributing to its vibrant cultural landscape. However, the dichotomy between the old and new Margate cannot be ignored. As Connor Sansby, a poet who has lived in Margate his whole life, notes, "Margate has become a place of two halves. It's two places occupying the same space."
The town's strong brand has attracted celebrities such as Madonna, who recently visited one of Margate's Italian restaurants, Cantina Caruso. The pop star described the town as "heaven" and "energised by creativity", but local resident Dan Thompson, an artist who has lived in Margate for 20 years, feels that this idealisation does not reflect the full story.
Thompson moved to Margate's "roughest streets" a decade ago but was priced out of the area due to rising prices. He now lives with friends and is struggling to afford housing. Despite the influx of wealthier residents, Thompson believes that gentrification has brought about both positive and negative effects. While it has created new business opportunities for local tradesmen, it has also led to increased housing costs and homelessness.
Other locals, including Amy Holbourne and her niece, have expressed similar concerns. Holbourne works on the high street and hopes that Madonna's visit will bring in more business, but she is critical of the council's handling of the social housing crisis. Her niece, who has been waiting for a place to live for three years, feels that there needs to be a "real sort-out" from the council.
The town's art scene is thriving, with local residents and newcomers alike contributing to its vibrant cultural landscape. However, the dichotomy between the old and new Margate cannot be ignored. As Connor Sansby, a poet who has lived in Margate his whole life, notes, "Margate has become a place of two halves. It's two places occupying the same space."
. The town is literally changing before their eyes and it's like they're being priced out 
. I mean, I get why the rich folks want to move in and all that jazz 
, but can't we find a way to make it more inclusive? 
It's like, there's two Margates going on here - one for the tourists and another for the locals 
. And what about all the talented artists like Dan Thompson who actually live there? 
I'm no expert, but I think we need some sort of balance between progress and people power 
. The council needs to step up their game and get those social housing costs under control 
. We can't have our town turning into a place where only the wealthy can afford to live 
.
, but at the same time, I feel like it's showing a more realistic side of things too. Like, yeah, it's great for business and stuff, but what about the people who are already here? It's not just about new money coming in and pushing out the old guard – it's about making sure everyone has a place to call home 
.
it's like they're livin' 2 different lives rn, u got ur high-end boutiques & italian restaurants (thank u madonna!) but meanwhile, long-time residents are struggling to make ends meet, housing prices are through the roof and homelessness is on the rise 
. council needs 2 step up & sort out that social housing crisis ASAP 
The artists and wealthy tourists are bringing in the cash, but the long-time residents like Dan Thompson are struggling to stay afloat 
There are real people affected by gentrification and it's not okay that they're being priced out of their own town. The council needs to sort out the social housing crisis ASAP 
, and let's not forget the locals who are working hard to keep the high street alive 
. It's time for a more balanced look at Margate's transformation, rather than just celebrating its art scene 
.
. And then there's this divide between old-timers and newcomers...it's just not right 
. I think the council needs to take a closer look at how they're handling housing and social services, 'cause it sounds like people are really struggling 
.
. On one hand, it's awesome to see new businesses and art scenes popping up, bringing in fresh vibes and opportunities for locals 
?
. But at the same time, I feel bad for the old-timers who are being priced out of their own homes 
. Anyway, I'm all for supporting local artists and businesses, just gotta make sure we're not forgetting about the people who've been there first 
.