“We are impressed with Kier’s reputation and track record on similar projects,” said Julian Winfield. “I’m confident that with careful planning we will be able to keep the current restaurant open to customers until June. We will then relocate the catering to a temporary but comfortable area until the new facility opens in October.”

Shane Mason said that they would ensure that there was the minimum of disruption to the centre during the build: “We can apply our high scoring Considerate Constructors Scheme programme to the way we approach the project. There should be no reason why our presence should interfere with the day to day running of the centre and the experience enjoyed by customers.”

The new facility will introduce features including a sumptuous coffee lounge serving Costa coffee, a traditional stone hearth pizza oven, a quality daily carvery and one of the most extensive cake counters in the region. Up to 50 additional catering staff are to be recruited.