MORE than a million pound of Government money promised to help Eastbourne after the pier fire will be spent on a new restaurant amid hopes it will be run by celebrity chef Rick Stein.

The Prime Minister and Chancellor George Osborne visited the town just days after up to 80 firefighters tackled the blaze on the 146-year-old, Grade-II listed structure last July.

Mr Cameron said at the time said he knew the fire will have 'hit the town hard' and pledged his support for local businesses.

Mr Osborne said Eastbourne Pier "is a much-loved local attraction and this fire is devastating news. I am therefore delighted to be able to provide financial support so we can minimise the effect on business and tourism".

"We will work with Eastbourne as a matter of urgency to ensure that the funding is provided without delay so people can start enjoying the pier again," he added.

It has now emerged that £1.2 million of the £2 million public money promised will be spent on a new restaurant on the Wish Tower site along Eastbourne seafront.

Architects Levitt Bernstein and Eastbourne Borough Council have released these images as the process to secure an operator for the signature café and restaurant reaches the shortlisting stage.

Negotiations will take place over the next six weeks with the three potential operators shortlisted, before best and final offers are submitted. A preferred restaurateur will be selected at the end of May.

Rumours are rife that celebrity chef Rick Stein is one of the three but the council is refusing to identify any at this stage.

The chosen operator will have input into the final design of the high profile venue which will stand on the seafront site of the former Wish Tower café and sun lounge.

Councillor David Tutt, Leader of Eastbourne Borough Council, said: 'These striking designs being developed show our ambition to create a landmark eatery which will enhance Eastbourne’s lifestyle offer for residents and visitors alike.

"Operating the new Wish Tower restaurant is a fantastic opportunity, reflected in the expressions of interest we received, and it is exciting that we are only weeks away from announcing the successful bidder."

Construction of the building is due to begin in January 2017 with an opening date of Easter 2018.