Food and drink outlets may open on the Harbour Arm for the first time during the winter this year.

The news comes as pictures from behind the scenes at Folkestone Harbour Station revealed the progress of renovation work.

As in previous years, the pier in Folkestone, which has proved a huge hit during the summer months, will be open in the winter for walking and fishing except in rough weather.

Full plans for the winter opening schedule including more details of outlets opening will be announced soon, Folkestone Harbour Company (FHC) said.

Peter Bettley, spokesman for FHC, which is carrying out the works, said: “The Harbour Arm itself will remain open all winter, as last year, subject to weather.

“This time, we expect that some of the outlets will also open, subject to demand. Seasonal opening is a difficult one to predict, but we will announce plans soon.”

Significant changes have taken place over the summer and work on reconstructing the crumbling platforms and canopies is now nearing completion.

Last month, the Express revealed the station is expected to open next year.

Project managers expect to announce an opening date once the timetable for the remaining work is finalised.

Earlier in the year, the seafront boardwalk and new walkway across the renovated listed viaduct were completed to add to the Harbour Arm.

The station will complete the network of footpaths and access around the seafront redevelopment site.

New services have been installed on the station with repairs to platforms, walls iron and glasswork and Folkestone Harbour nameboards will also be fitted.

Brand new canopies have been fitted and the former tracks have been retained and filled in to give a level walking surface and retain the area’s railway character.

This has also been landscaped with planting through the middle.

Timber benches and steps have been added and boards explaining the history of the site will also be put in to explain the area’s infrastructure and maritime heritage.