A new computer-generated image reveals how six shops set to open inside a former all-you-can-eat restaurant will look - as the area continues to grow in popularity.

The businesses will move into a unit previously used by Oriental Buffet in Rendezvous Street, Folkestone, after the venue shut for good in June last year.

The building was taken over by Sandwich-based MPL Group earlier this year and work to split it into six separate units began in the summer.

Hannah Thomas, lettings manager at MPL Group, hopes the shops will be ready for businesses to move into at the beginning of January.

“We are very excited about these six units; we think they are going to add a lot of vibrancy to Rendezvous Street,” she said.

“Three of the units have already been taken with another two currently under offer.

“We are delighted by the level of interest we have received, with many commenting on how great it is to be offering smaller units.

“We currently only have one unit left available and hope to have a full house in the new year.

“We are really excited by this opportunity as it will bring new interest and life to Rendezvous Street.”

Among those set to move into the units, which have all been painted in bright colours, is a jewellery boutique called Bella Rose Ltd.

It will be joined by The South East Emporium, which sells an array of vintage items, and Laes Studio Ltd, which sells beach goods such as bags and towels.

Last summer, a sign was placed on the door of the Oriental Buffet stating the business was closed “until further notice”, with a statement on its website blaming maintenance works.

MPL submitted its plans to convert the site to Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC) in January.

Planning documents said the conversion, which was approved in April, would “satisfy the needs of potential starter small businesses”.

The shops will be the latest addition to the Rendezvous Street area of Folkestone, which is already home to burger restaurant Lucky Chip, The Old Cigar and Olive bar and Luben’s Pizza.

It is located at the top of the Old High Street, which leads down to Folkestone’s popular harbour arm.