A BOUTIQUE bowling alley and gin bar are set to open next summer as part of a multi-million pound riverside redevelopment in Durham.

The Newcastle-based Lane7 will be opening a new indoor leisure facility in a 5,000 sq ft unit at The Riverwalk, including bowling and pool.

Trevor Davis, founder and chef at The Court Inn, has also agreed a new letting and will be opening a 445 sq ft gin bar, Old Toms, on a ten-year lease this week.

Old Toms and Lane7 will be joining an array of recent lettings at The Riverwalk, including Odeon Cinema, and the restaurants Turtle Bay, and Cosy Club.

The redeveloped shopping centre comprises seven restaurants, 23 refurbished shops, including The Works, Brighthouse, and CEX, and improved entrances and public realm, helping to enhance Durham City’s amenities both during the day and at night-time. As part of the development, 253 student rooms are also being built.

Mr Davis said: “We have been looking for the opportunity to open our second gin bar in Durham for a while now, and The Riverwalk presents a fantastic opportunity for our next venture.

Tim Wilks, owner of Lane7, added: “The Riverwalk is the ideal central location for our next destination, and we are delighted to be opening our bowling alley at such a high-quality scheme that will make its mark on Durham.”