EXCLUSIVE Amazon-like proposals for warehouse refurbishment in Kent
Proposals for the refurbishment of a warehouse in Ramsgate Kent suggest an Amazon-like end user for the currently vacant property.
By Liza Helps, Property Editor, Logistics Matters
PLANNING documents for the refurbishment of the 175,467 ft2 Manston House warehouse include the renovation and extension of a warehouse with ancillary offices, associated vehicle parking, pedestrian and vehicular access, landscaping and associated infrastructure works as well as a new build multi deck van storage facility – the details of the van parking and circulation routes bear a strong resemblance to those identified for Amazon delivery stations (last mile) in other areas of the UK.
Delivery vans are split into four areas on the site: Storage at ground and on three level of van storage decks; waiting, loading and overspill> tehre is room for 377 vans multi deck van storage facility as well as a further circa 120 in the overspill areas.
Around 20% of Van storage spaces will be allocated for EV charging day one with further locations identified for future transformers to increase EV charging as demand increases.
HGV docking stations are to be relocated to the north of the building.
To the side of the warehouse building, facing west, delivery van waiting and loading areas can be found. Efficient operation and safety are the key factors in the layout of these areas. The loading area will be enclosed by new construction to match the existing warehouse.
The south of the site is allocated for delivery van storage area, including the van storage deck levels. An amount of van storage is allocated at ground floor levels, assisting to provide access for those who use public transport.
In its planning statement the planners on behalf of property advice and planning consultancy DWD which itself advises self storage and logistics clients through complex planning and development projects, said: “In conclusion, the proposed works will deliver a high-quality, sustainable employment development that revitalises an existing brownfield site, supports regional logistics infrastructure, and contributes positively to the local economy and built environment of Ramsgate.”
Manston House which is being marketed at a rent of £6.50 per ft2 through property agent Knight Frank totals some 175,467 ft2 including 28,559 ft2 of office space. It has 10m eaves and sits on a 10.8 acres self contained site with 2.5MvA of power supply.
Should Amazon secure this property it is likely to do so subject to planning permission from Thanet Council. The application was submitted in December 2025 and is currently being considered. No decision date has been set.
