The government is looking for a company to run the café at the National Sports Centre in Douglas.

It says it is a chance to ’transform’ it into a ’focal point for guests and visitors’.

The Manx Independent highlighted its ’and chips’ menu in March 2019. The newspaper suggested that it did not set a good example for a venue that is meant to improve health.

That prompted a Tynwald question from Garff MHK Daphne Caine about whether it offered a healthy menu.

The then Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, Graham Cregeen, defended the menu, saying it offered variety.

Now the government is looking for ’experienced providers’ to come forward, demonstrate their capability of running the café, and share their vision for its future.

It says: ’Anyone wishing to apply must be able to deliver a healthy and imaginative menu, consistently excellent customer service and put their own stamp on the space.

’Thousands of people use the centre’s facilities that include indoor swimming pools, sports halls, and a gym. When it reopens later this year the café will also cater for guests and those using the outdoor football and hockey pitches and running track.’

The café, which was previously run by the Department of Education, Sport and Culture, was closed on March 22 last year when the NSC was shut as part of the government’s response to Covid-19.

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said: ’This is an exciting opportunity to reinvent the café and give it its own identity.

’We are looking for a passionate caterer who cares about their customers and can deliver a modern and imaginative menu, focussed on healthy and nutritious meals.

’We want someone to transform the café into a dining destination and help us promote the benefits of leading a healthy and active lifestyle through the food the centre offers.’

Expressions of interest can be registered on the government’s website, before the deadline on February 5.