PLANS to bring catering facilities to a Penarth gardens are set to be given the go ahead next week.

A report presented to cabinet on Monday (January 22) will recommend the Vale council begin marketing the idea to prospective operators as it seeks to increase the revenue generated at its parks and open spaces.

South Lodge in Windsor Gardens is one of five parks and open spaces being considered for catering facilities with one suggestion being quality tea rooms.

The gardens were originally laid out as a private space for the owners of the adjoining villas which were owned by wealthy shipping merchants.

The council says it has received enquiries about providing catering operations here indicating that there is interest from operators.

The report states that, in the past, catering facilities at Vale parks have been seen as lacking in green flag award evaluations.

South Lodge at Windsor Gardens in Penarth is presently used as a mess room and storage area but occupies a prime site, the report states.

It suggests that the lodge could be put to a variety of uses but would seem ideally suited to some form of catering operation.

The building would require works given its current condition which the reports says may require investment that could impact on the initial return to the council.

The council is therefore aiming to invite tenders for South Lodge for up to 10 years.

Prospective operators would be asked to detail their environmental policy with reference to sustainability and climate change.

The report also states that other site in the Vale could be considered for the idea.

A small working group will be set up to manage the process with the money coming from within existing budgets.