Computer generated image of the Durley Chine development
Visitors to Durley Chine will soon be able to enjoy dining at a brand new development just a stone’s throw away from the beach.
The Chineside building will include the provision of a new beach office and public toilets. Bournemouth Council is re-developing the existing catering facility at Durley Chine at a cost of £900,000 as part of the council’s Seafront Strategy to create a world class seafront.
Glazed concertina panels at the front of the building will fold open enabling café customers seated inside to enjoy the beautiful beachfront setting. Visitors to the sheltered first floor terrace will also enjoy magnificent sea views across to Old Harry Rocks to the southwest and the Isle of Wight to the east.
A timber beach terrace will be built on the south side of the promenade in front of the new building offering customers the opportunity to enjoy al fresco dining whilst soaking up the seaside environment.
Councillor Lawrence Williams, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Leisure & Culture, said: “Durley Chine provides the perfect environment for relaxation and dining in the beautiful surrounds of a Blue Flag beach, with Bournemouth Pier only a short walk away. This new development will enhance the look and feel of the area, offer visitors greater choice and provide a convenient location for public facilities, as well as creating local employment opportunities.”
Bournemouth Council is working in conjunction with the existing catering outlet operator, Rob Shearman, who will be running the new café, takeaway, kiosk and shop.
Mr Shearman said: “I have been running the catering outlet at Durley Chine for the last 14 years and am delighted to be working with the council to offer customers a significantly improved facility with indoor seating for the first time. There will also be a decked area on the beach, and an upper floor which can be utilised for corporate events and functions. We are looking forward to welcoming visitors whatever the weather, all-year round!”
Beach visitors will be encouraged to cycle to Durley Chine with the provision of an additional 28 cycle spaces. Disabled visitors will be able to park in the nearby disabled parking bays with level access to the restaurant and a platform lift to the roof terrace.
The work will be carried out by Bournemouth Council’s building maintenance team with the demolition of the existing building on site due to take place this month. Chineside is expected to open in time for the 2015 summer season.
