QUESTIONS have been raised over who will run Highcliffe Castle tearooms as the council puts the operation out to offers.

The popular venue at the historic castle has been run for the past 17 years by Sean Kearney, who also owns the Cliffhanger at Highcliffe.

The decision to potentially seek a new operator was taken in private as an exempt item at a recent meeting of Christchurch Borough Council's policy and resources committee.

No members of the public or press were allowed to be present during the discussions.

Judith Plumley, head of community and leisure at the council said: "The council has an existing lease with the current operator which comes to an end at the end of March 2017.

"At policy and resources committee last week it was resolved that the council’s procurement process should be initiated in order to receive tenders for the operation of the facilities beyond that date."

She said until the process had been completed, no decision will be made with any other operator.

Chairman of the committee, Cllr Trevor Watts said the tender would be open to everyone.

Mr Kearney, said he had been told just days before the meeting that the lease could go out to tender.

"I had been requesting clarification of the situation for some time, because the decision affects not only my own business plans but also the livelihoods of my employees and suppliers.

“I was very surprised that my operation is being subjected to this process when we have operated the tearooms successfully for the past 17 years with an unblemished record during this time."

He added: "The council officers must conduct a fair and impartial tender with all due transparency."

Earlier this year, Highcliffe Castle, the home of Harry Selfridge, got permission to restore parts of the listed building.

A grant of £2.8m was approved by the Heritage Lottery Fund for the so-called Phoenix Files project at the castle, which has seen its profile soar thanks to the Mr Selfridge television series.

The money will be used to repair the Penleaze Wing and transform it into a new and exciting heritage centre and learning facility.

It will include repair of the Victorian kitchen, conservation and display of the unique medieval stained glass collection and a education facility for schools and community groups.