INVESTIGATION works are set to take place ahead of the proposed redevelopment of the Bistro on the Beach site in Southbourne.

The current building has reached the end of its life and work will take place to determine the foundation design of the planned new scheme.

It will take place between May 10 and 18 and will lead to diversions for some pedestrians.

If planning permission is granted the new building will include an improved restaurant with an external dining terrace, takeaway kiosk, public toilets and short-stay holiday accommodation in 17 beach lodges.

A spokesman for BCP Council said: "The building is of the same construction as the former adjacent beach huts that were demolished in 2014.

"We will be undertaking some ground investigation works to inform the foundation design of the new scheme. The aim is to submit a planning application in the summer for works to commence winter 2021. 

"The ground investigation work consists of a series of boreholes to be drilled into the promenade in front of Bistro, on the main access slope from the car park behind and within the car park. In order to minimise disruption, plans are to undertake the majority of the work in the evening and overnight.

"For some of the work period, pedestrians arriving at the car park will be diverted to access the promenade and beach via Warren Edge at the eastern end of the car park or via the access slope to the west."

Work is set to begin on Monday May 10, finishing on Wednesday May 19. It will be carried out by two teams working day and night.

The existing buildings date back to the 1970s and structural reports have shown they have now reached end of life.