In June, it was announced that the Casual Dining Group, which already operates outlets at Jersey Airport and around 300 other UK facilities, would be taking over catering at the Harbour facility.
And it is now hoped that the new bar will host a number of weekend entertainment nights, which will include live bands, jazz nights and stand-up comedy.
Mark Nelson, managing director of concessions and franchising at Casual Dining Group, explained the company’s intentions: ‘As we are catering for the local community as well as visitors, we have done something a little different with this site and included a stage for local bands and comedians. It is going to be a great attraction and we cannot wait to open the doors early next year.’
‘We look forward to building on this momentum and growing this concept in the future at other national transport hubs including airports, ports and major train stations – it’s already been very well received at Heathrow Airport and we have no doubt it will be the same in Jersey.’
The Harbour Bar and Café at the site closed in 2013 after its owner experienced financial difficulties. She later blamed the lack of a bus route to the terminal.
Since then, a number of schemes have been devised for the facility, including a 250-seat restaurant, along with a cinema and al fresco dining area.
However, no plans ever came to fruition.
In the meantime, a small kiosk offering coffee, sandwiches and other refreshments has been in place.
James Morris, group commercial projects officer for Ports of Jersey, said that the port had been crying out for a new food and drink offering and added he was confident that Islanders and passengers would like the new outlet.
‘Casual Dining Group’s proven success of operations at Jersey Airport and the quality of the concept, made it a no-brainer for us to partner with them again at the port,’ he said.
‘Their ability to pull together a winning offer and also their willingness to adapt the model, sets them apart from the crowd and we are looking forward to developing this offer at Elizabeth Terminal, which will be available early next year.’
The announcement follows a successful £350,000 project to modernise and refurbish the facility.
New flooring, ceilings, lighting, signage and passenger information screens have all been installed.
Internal walls have also been reconfigured to improve the flow of departing foot passengers through the security check.
A graffiti artist has also been used to create artwork on the west berth passenger corridor and at baggage reclaim.
