Could you create something “remarkable” at The Net Store?

Marketing of The Net Store on Whitstable Harbour’s south quay – formerly the Crab and Winkle restaurant – has started today (Friday 6 March) with expressions of interest in taking on the space welcome.

The city council has put the prime, 5,000 square foot site onto the market for lease, with options for it including use as one large unit, or for up to four smaller ones.

It is described in the marketing brochure as an “historic building providing high and imposing column-free space directly onto the harbourside…a unique opportunity for an operator with the vision to create something remarkable”.

Potential uses for it could be in the retail, experience, lifestyle or leisure sectors, but the council is keen to see a broad range of proposals come forward that would enhance the offer to residents and visitors along the south quay.

Chairman of Whitstable Harbour Board, Cllr Chris Cornell, said: “This is an exciting moment as we take the first steps towards securing a new operator for one of the town’s most important spaces.

“We are looking for someone who can take this site to the next level and develop an outstanding new attraction for Whitstable and the harbour.

“Be bold, be ambitious and impress us with what you want to achieve, and this incredible opportunity could be yours.”

For more information, to request a viewing or to submit a proposal, contact the agent, Ryan Kennedy, at ryan@rkrealestate.co.uk.

Further details including the full marketing brochure can be found on the agent’s website.

The Harbour Board is also reinstating a wet fish concession which will sell locally-caught fish on the adjacent former Cockle Shed site.

This revitalised space will include shaded public seating, and is anticipated to be fully operational for the upcoming summer season.

Published: 6 March 2026