Thanet District Council work to repair the Madeira Walk Waterfall in Ramsgate, starts today, Monday 10 March 2025

The waterfall is a much-loved and recognisable landmark in the town, but has been out of action since 2022. It was necessary to temporarily shut down the waterfall as the two large ponds had developed leaks and were losing water. 

The project will take place in two stages. During the first phase, the ponds will be drained so that the necessary repairs can be identified. Scaffolding and security fencing will be placed around the ponds. 

Due to the waterfall’s rare Pulhamite structure, specialist landscape contractors with experience in maintaining historic landscapes have been appointed. Together with horticultural experts, they will cut back the plants that surround the ponds, and also remove invasive species. 

Ahead of work starting, a team of ecologists surveyed the site for rare or protected wildlife, including bats, reptiles and amphibians. Specialist environmental consultants carried out site surveys and risk assessments, and will work alongside the project team to avoid disturbing any nesting birds or other species.

Once this work is complete, phase two can begin. The ponds will be repaired so they hold water once again. The pumps and control system that power the waterfall will be overhauled, together with the feature lighting. 

It is anticipated that the work will be completed ahead of the summer season.

Councillor Steve Albon, Cabinet Member for Cleansing and Coastal Services, said: “I’m delighted that work is starting to repair the Madeira Walk Waterfall. It’s such an iconic part of Ramsgate, for local people and visitors. It’s got an interesting history, and also provides an important habitat for so many different wild species. 

“We’re taking the environmental aspects of this project very seriously. By employing specialist contractors, we’ll make sure that the impact on wildlife is kept to a minimum.

“Working with specialists will also ensure that the heritage materials that make up the waterfall are protected.”

The Madeira Walk Waterfall is constructed from Pulhamite, a man-made material popular in the 19th century. Ramsgate’s collection of Pulhamite rockwork gardens and structures are listed at Grade II on the National Heritage List for England, ensuring that the Pulhamite is recognised and protected for future generations. In 2021, the Heritage Action Zone partnership repaired sections of the Pulhamite at Albion Gardens and Madeira Walk, with a grant from Historic England’s Emergency Repair grant fund. The site was repaired by specialist conservators and a training day was held for the local community to understand the repair process and experience live repairs on site.