A proposed cyclists’ cafe on Deal seafront has been granted full planning permission.

The former Deal Angling HQ and public toilets in Beach Street will now be turned into a healthy cafe and cycle repair workshop.

The project is the brainchild of Platform 1 owners Nick and Andy Stevens, along with Deal Tri chairwoman Yvonne Hankin and vice-chairman Gary Holmes.

Mr Stevens said: “The public support for this project has been overwhelming.

“With planning permission granted the project team is looking forward to transforming this prime site building on Deal’s seafront into a cafe to cater for the ever increasing cycle market and provide a cycle technician service.

“Deal is a mecca for cyclists, both club members and people who just enjoy cycling for fun. Our cycle cafe concept will be the first of its kind on the south east coast and, of course, will be creating job opportunities for the people of the town, too.”

It hopes to create 12 jobs initially and this number could grow during the busy summer.

The cafe also hopes to become a hub for community events that take place along the seafront.

Mr Stevens added: “It’s not just for cyclists, its a cafe for everybody.”

Planning permission, given by the district council, is subject to a few conditions, including that no music is to be played on the premises at any time.

There will also be no outside seating unless this is approved by the local planning authority.

Deal Town Council had objected to the plans for a seating area as this would be located on the main walkway along the seafront.

The developers must also submit samples of the materials to be used in the construction of the development and decking area and details of the cycle hoops.

These must be approved by the local planning authority before the project can start.

Last week the Mercury reported that the public consultation period had seen an overwhelmingly positive response.