The new occupiers of the café at the end of Deal Pier have been announced following a nine-month closure.

The award-winning structure which featured in hit ITV drama Liar will be taken over by Tim Biggs and Rebecca Hodson.

To be known as Deal Pier Kitchen, the building will now undergo a refurbishment before reopening as a modern café offering an all-day dining menu and featuring a baby grand piano.

Mr Biggs, who has signed a 20-year lease, said: “Deal Pier Kitchen firmly believe that the best restaurants are borne out of a true partnership with the community.

"Our aim is to build such a partnership with Deal’s community by working together to create a highly successful, enjoyable and welcoming environment that proudly reflects and enhances the reputation of Deal.

"We were drawn to this particular property due to its irresistible and individual views, which we hope to capitalise on with the design of the interior.”

The unit has been closed since January 1 after former occupant Jasin Kaplan's lease was terminated by mutual agreement with DDC.

It followed an alleged disagreement between them over opening hours of the pier.

Mr Biggs continued: "We are intent on creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with a unique menu to meet the needs of the Deal residents.

"We are passionate about great quality, healthy and locally sourced produce, with a focus on reducing the journey from farm/sea to plate.

"Our main offering will be an exciting mix of brunch and lunch dishes accompanied by interesting drink and dessert options and we hope to expand our evening offering as the summer nights get longer in 2019.”

Last year the structure celebrated its 60th anniversary and a £500,000 refurbishment was announced. Ongoing works include resurfacing and new benches.

Cllr Trevor Bartlett, DDC cabinet member for property management, said: “We’re delighted that the Deal Pier Kitchen is bringing a new, fresh offer to the café at the end of the pier which is enjoyed by local people and visitors to Deal alike as a place to sit and enjoy the magnificent views out across the English Channel.

“Having been opened in November 2008 by the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, Admiral The Lord Boyce, the Deal Pier café is an iconic and award-winning part of the seascape.

"Designed by Niall McClaughlin Associates the timber framed café features on the Chalk Up 21 trail celebrating contemporary coastal architecture on the stretch of coastline from Capel-le-Ferne to Deal.”

Simon Bland of leisure property specialist Fleurets, who sold the lease to Deal Pier Kitchen on behalf of DDC said interest in the building was "exceptionally strong".

He said: "I'm excited to see the Deal Pier Kitchen open and serving customers very soon and adding something special to the vibrant local food and drink scene.”