The Little Venetian is the new name for the venue at Great Yarmouth's famous Waterways, the tourist attraction located on the town's North Drive.

The site will be run by local businesswoman Sophi Parkes, who said she was "absolutely elated" to be managing the business which will reopen in time for the Easter holidays.

In the meantime, the cafe is being refurbished to create what Ms Parkes describes as "a modern yet relaxing ambience".

There will be more food options, with a strong focus on using local producers wherever possible and a range of options available to suit different dietary needs, including gluten-free and dairy-free choices.

Sophi Parkes, Great Yarmouth businesswoman who is taking over the cafe and boating lake at Great Yarmouth's Waterways. (Image: Supplied)

Beyond food and boating, Ms Parkes wants The Little Venetian to become a community wellbeing hub.

The attraction will host wellbeing days, yoga sessions and fitness activities, working in collaboration with local businesses to support health, connection and mindful living.

The site was previously run by the Lowestoft-based Access Community Trust, the charity that suddenly folded last week.

After their tenancy ended last November, Ms Parkes submitted a business plan to Great Yarmouth Borough Council which was accepted in January this year.

Great Yarmouth's Venetian Waterways and gardens. (Image: Great Yarmouth Borough Council)

It was a case of second time lucky for the businesswoman who had seen a previous application to run the cafe turned down by the authority.

Ms Parkes, who has lived in Great Yarmouth all her life, used to visit the cafe and boating lake as a child.

"I've always had an interest in the place," she said.

Two full-time gardener roles at the location will be managed by council-owned Great Yarmouth Services, meaning the gardens and water quality will be maintained separately from the cafe business.

© Eastern Daily Press