The bold vision would replace the current ‘Bistro on the Beach’ with a new destination facility on the same footprint.

Structural surveys have concluded the existing building is no longer economic to repair.

The new building would be fully accessible via a pedestrian walkway from the car park, to a platform with commanding views and provide a public lift from the cliff top to the promenade for the first time.

Plans include a restaurant at promenade level (up to 120 covers indoors) with extensive outdoor dining (100 covers) plus a separate kiosk.

The first-floor level would find 16 new beach lodges, offering a short stay experience for up to four guests on the beachfront and featuring kitchens, bathrooms, heating, Wi-Fi and television. The lodges would be a premium version of the Bournemouth Beach Lodges operation at Manor Steps and be powered by solar energy. Visitors to these beach lodges would enjoy exclusive use of a spa and treatment room facility.

New public toilets and a beach office would complete the complex.

“We’re continuing to invest in projects like these which provide great experiences right on our superb seafront for visitors, improve local amenities for everyone and generate an income for the council benefitting frontline services,” said portfolio holder for Tourism, Councillor Lewis Allison.

The plans will go before cabinet on 24 June 2020. If approved a planning application could be submitted towards the end of the year.