PLANS to improve Ramsgate's port and harbour were due to be debated yesterday (Thursday) by owners Thanet council.

The draft Harbour Master Plan, which was published this week, was to be discussed at the first meeting of the newly formed Ramsgate Port and Marina Cabinet Advisory Group.

Proposals fall within three areas, the Royal Harbour, the port and the commercial area between the two.

Plans for the Royal Harbour include refurbishment of the harbour arches, the retention of slipways one and three for servicing vessels and the pedestrianisation of Harbour Parade.

This could include improvements to the junction of Harbour Street and Harbour Parade, with better pedestrian crossings connecting both sides of the harbour.

Port proposals include the removal of dilapidated temporary buildings, and improved access between the port and the adjacent business park area, which could expand.

There are also plans to improve parking facilities and free up vacant space to provide more room for businesses to move in.

The advisory group was set up in September to help develop the plan, but only met for the first time yesterday.