WORK is scheduled to start before the end of the year on the £4 million transformation of Ventnor’s Winter Gardens — subject to a revised planning application gaining approval from the Isle of Wight Council.
The planning application has been revised following detailed investigation of ground conditions.
It reduces the number of bedrooms to 32 but increases their size.
The plan is the brainchild of Michelin-starred chef, Robert Thompson, of the Hambrough Hotel, and includes a 60-cover restaurant in addition to high-quality accommodation and entertainment.
He said: "The plans are going out to tender and we hope to get started and on site building before the end of the year.
"There is great interest from the construction industry and some very exciting times ahead. We are aware of people’s concerns and are eager to get started too.
"We are aiming to be open by Easter 2014."
The Winter Gardens, in its prominent position overlooking Ventnor Esplanade closed because neither its owners, the Isle of Wight Council, or Ventnor Town Council could afford to keep it open and fund repairs estimated to cost £650,000. The Isle of Wight Council sold it for £1.
Reporter: richardw@iwcpmail.co.uk