Whitstable Oyster Fishery Company wants to create the food offering at the site of a former engine shed once used by the Crab and Winkle Line railway

A new two-storey seafood restaurant set within repurposed shipping containers on Whitstable’s South Quay is in the pipeline.

Whitstable Oyster Fishery Company, which is behind the scheme, wants to create the food offering at the site of a former engine shed once used by the Crab and Winkle Line railway.

It will boast a viewing deck and outdoor seating areas which the firm says will create a focal point on the harbour-side.

Called The Old Engine Shed, it will have panoramic views across the harbour and out to sea.

Architects Lee Evans Partnership submitted plans on behalf of Whitstable Oyster Fishery Company, which have now been approved by Canterbury City Council.

It replaces a similar earlier scheme, which was granted permission four years ago, but for which the approval lapsed.

In the plans, the architects say the design will allow it to be open all year round.

“The development will provide a vibrant place that will build upon the oyster heritage of Whitstable and enhance tourism and fishing activities within the harbour,” the firm said. “The upper deck will provide a fantastic viewing area to watch the sunset over the harbour and the Isle of Sheppey in the distance.

“There will also be decked seating areas with both stepped and ramped access.”

The architect says food wise, the emphasis will be on local produce including fish and shellfish.

“This will provide a local market for Whitstable fishermen and a platform to promote their products. The working aspect of the harbour is important and by supporting local fishermen whilst providing an attraction for tourism, there is a balance of operational and non-operational activities that make the harbour such an asset to the town and an attraction to visitors.”

The restaurant is expected to provide four full time staff and 10 part time direct employees from the area, as well as many indirect local employment opportunities.

The land is currently occupied by the Mussel Shack.

Image Credit: Lee Evans Partnership LLP