A FORMER furniture store will undergo a £250,000 transformation into a coffee bar and bistro with a terrace over the River Tone.

Work on Riviera, which will be next to Okoko nightclub in Bridge Street, Taunton, has started to spruce up the inside of the building.

The venue is being revamped by 241 Leisure, which also owns Okoko nightclub, KHODE and Aloha, and will serve food as well as drinks during the daytime and then move into a bar atmosphere later on in the evening.

The building runs underneath Okoko nightclub and developers will build a terraced area so diners can sit outside overlooking the river.

Michelle Andrews, co-owner of 241 Leisure, said: “Our aim with Riviera is to create both a day time and a late night bar and bistro atmosphere for those who want a late night drink without having to go to a night club.

“As well as contemporary decor, there will, on some occasions, be quiet and tasteful background music to add to the classy bistro atmosphere.”

Michelle said they intend to open from 11am until midnight from Sunday to Wednesday, and 11am until 2am on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

She added: “This venue will also have the unique feature of a river terrace – an outside area to enjoy the view all year round, whether it be to soak up the summer sun, or observe an early evening sunset during the winter months.”

Taunton Deane planning bosses gave proposals the go-ahead at Riviera earlier this year and bosses say 25 jobs will be created by the new venue.

What are your thoughts on the venue? Would like to sit out on a terrace above the River Tone or do you have concerns? Let us know.