A popular seafront cafe in Seaham is set for a major revamp.
Earlier this year, plans were lodged with Durham County Council for the venue known as Tonia’s Cafe off the B1287.
The building is based at the Seaham Hall Beach Car Park, a visitor hotspot which offers stunning coastal views.
According to the planning application, North Beach Leisure Ltd is in the process of acquiring the cafe.
As part of the move, the building is set for a facelift and new and improved facilities for customers.
This includes a single-storey extension to form an ice cream kiosk, new full height windows at either side of the main entrance, new signage and safe cycle storage.
The plans also include a raised terrace or patio type structure for outside dining with access steps and a safety railing. Timber artwork will also be retained as well as the disabled access ramp.
A design and heritage statement from the applicant states the alterations aim to “enhance the retail capacity of the existing outlet” while providing new jobs and investment into Seaham.
It reads: “If the development is looked on positively there will be people employed on a full and part-time basis, the area will undergo an injection of cash investment involved with the construction work and maintenance of equipment.
“It is the client’s wish to turn the existing premises into a bijou location for all sections of the local and wider community to enjoy a drink on the terrace or to relax after a walk on the beach, to make the location a pleasant destination and a place where people can relax and enjoy the coastline and fresh air.”
Durham County Council planners approved the refurbishment scheme on Wednesday, November 11.
Under planning conditions, work must be brought forward within the next three years.
