Thanet District Council (TDC) has submitted its application for the compulsory purchase of Margate's Dreamland site as part of efforts to create a "new and viable" theme park.

The local authority said that it had a "compelling case" for securing a compulsory purchase order, which is designed to help push forward the regeneration of the site.

TDC, working in partnership with the Dreamland Trust, is proposing to develop the world's first heritage amusement park comprising historic rides and attractions.

The project has already secured £3.7m from the now-defunct Sea Change programme, while a decision on a £3m Heritage Lottery Fund grant is expected in due course.

TDC leader Bob Bayford said: "This document shows very clearly that the first stage of the Dreamland project is deliverable, viable and has the funding behind it to make it happen.

"It's a great shame that we have ended up in this position, as we had hoped to move forward without the need for a compulsory purchase order."

Dreamland Trust chair Nick Laister added: "The Statement of Case makes it clear why this project needs to move forward as quickly as possible."

A public inquiry into the compulsory purchase plans will start on 10 January 2012, with the Planning Inspectorate expected to publish a report in late February or early March.

Details: www.thanet.gov.uk