A LANDMARK coastal pub is set for a new lease of life as a bar and restaurant.
Marsden Grotto, overlooking Marsden Rock, between South Shields and Sunderland, has been empty for a year and has been targeted by vandals.
It has been bought by Tavistock Leisure, owners of Sunderland's 11 Tavistock Place, and Durham Estates and will open in the autumn.
The pub is at the foot of cliffs and is reached by a lift or stairs.
Tavistock Leisure boss Mark Hird said: "We are still looking at our options have yet to make a decision on exactly how it will look. But we hope to have an all-day food operation running in the bar downstairs, and then a restaurant above."
It is expected the development will create ten full-time and 20 part-time jobs.
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