A QUIRKY new café built from a renovated shipping freight container is set to open in the middle of a major roundabout in Bournemouth.

The roundabout near Bournemouth Railway Station is undergoing a revamp to make the area safer and more attractive for the many visitors and commuters travelling through this part of town.

Work began today to install Fr8 Café in the central pedestrianised area of the roundabout which links Holdenhurst Road to St Swithun's Road and St Paul's Road.

And last night a crane was due to lower the cafe into place, resulting in some road closures near the roundabout and a temporary diversion while the crane is in situ.

Built from an old shipping freight container, FR8 Café is set to officially open next Monday, May 23, and will open seven days a week.

There will be a range of food and drink available ranging from coffee, breakfast food, salads, a sandwich or mac and cheese.

The idea of the cafe is for people to be able to pick up food while on the go but there will also be an outdoor seating area for customers.

It will be run by local operator Tarek El-Dars, who also owns the cafe Omelettos at The Triangle.

He said: “I am delighted to open Fr8 Café at this prime town centre location. The excellent transport links, closeness to the town centre and beach already make the area a destination of choice.

“The idea behind Fr8 is to turn an unused space into a safe and attractive environment for people to enjoy. I'm really looking forward to welcoming customers.”

The arrival of the new café is part of the ongoing regeneration to make this location vibrant and more attractive for those working, studying and travelling through Lansdowne and the surrounding areas.

As part of the wider improvements the central part of the roundabout and underpass has had a recent makeover thanks to local artist Rick Walker. His designs includes bright coloured panels which direct people to key landmarks across the town.

Further works this summer will see new lighting installed.

Bournemouth Borough Cllr Mike Greene, cabinet member for transport; said; “Through these works we have turned a neglected area into a more welcoming place for the millions of visitors and commuters who travel through this part of town.

“Together with the council's environmental improvements I am sure the new cafe will make pedestrians' journey to the station more enjoyable and encourage them to use this convenient route."