The caterers who run the Sound and Bradda Glen cafes in the south of the island have been chosen to reopen the cafe at the National Sports Centre in Douglas.

Riverside Limited will take over the site on July 1, with the cafe set to begin serving again on Saturday, July 17 in time for the school summer holidays.

A further refurbishment of the cafe is planned for September and artist’s impressions and designs for refurbishment will be on display at the cafe when it reopens later this month.

These will detail the changes that are envisioned including new counters, equipment and furniture, with seating planned for approximately 100 people.

More than 30 operators expressed an interest in taking over the operation of the site with seven shortlisted and three interviewed.

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, but also to provide healthy and nutritious meals for members and guests.

’We are confident that Riverside Limited share our vision for the space to be a dining destination and their passion and ideas shone at interview.’

The café, which was previously run by the government, has been closed since March last year and the beginning of Covid-19 restrictions in the island.

The previous year the contents of its menu had been the subject of a Tynwald debate.

It followed an article in the Manx Independent in which a customer hit out at what was on the menu at the cafe, including chips and burgers.

They felt it sent out the wrong message at a centre supposedly devoted to healthy activities.

In bidding to take over the cafe, shortlisted caterers were asked to share their ideas for promoting the benefits of leading a healthy and active lifestyle through the food choices.

Adrian Christian, managing director of Riverside, said: ’We will be offering a diverse menu for food and drinks, including Barista coffees, fresh smoothies and other healthy foods, along with classic cafe style food and homemade cakes.

’With longer opening hours, we hope not only to serve the public using the NSC but also hope it will be a go to destination for friends, family and business meetings to take place.

’The whole team is really looking forward to the challenge of the new "Aqua cafe" at the NSC.’

Thousands of people use the National Sports Centre facilities that include indoor swimming pools, sports halls and a gym.