Plans to convert the old public conveniences on Nell's Point into a restaurant complex have moved a step closer after the Vale of Glamorgan Council entered a lease arrangement with developers Next Colour.

The project, undertaken by the company behind the Oyster Wharf scheme in Mumbles, would see the 100-year-old Victorian building transformed into four commercial units with outdoor seating space.

A number of high-profile names have expressed an interest in opening outlets at the site, including Loungers, a coffee-bar chain with branches throughout Bristol, Bath and South Wales, with Ocho Lounge in Penarth among them.

Businesses located at the site would enjoy stunning views over Whitmore Bay and the Severn Estuary.

Cllr Lis Burnett, Vale of Glamorgan Council Cabinet Member for Education and Regeneration, said: "I'm delighted that we have entered a lease arrangement with Next Colour regarding the development of the old public conveniences at Nell's Point.

"This is a significant milestone, one that means the prospect of locating an exciting collection of hospitality businesses on Barry Island is nearer to becoming a reality.

"Bringing new high calibre restaurants to Barry Island will further boost the area and help cement its reputation as a first-class seaside resort. We look forward to working with Next Colour to make the location even more appealing to residents and visitors alike."

The development, which has been delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic and investigations into the structure's stability, remains the subject of planning and listed building applications.

James Morse, Chief Executive Officer of Next Colour, said: "It's great that the market conditions now allow us to get this project moving. We are fully committed to delivering this development, which will bring high-quality restaurants to the area.

"Aside from offering customers attractive places to eat, we hope these businesses will provide jobs, increase visitor numbers and boost the local economy."