BEER lovers have been given the first glimpse of what Dovercourt’s new JD Wetherspoon pub and hotel will look like.

The popular pub chain is spending £2.6 million transforming the derelict former Co-op site in Kingsway into a new establishment.

The Bottle Kiln was named by Standard readers after JD Wetherspoon consulted local historians to draw up a shortlist, which also included The Wheatsheaf and The London Tavern.

The pub chain already has approval for the development, but has now submitted plans for five fascia signs, one projecting or hanging sign and two other signs.

The signs also include an image of a bottle kiln.

The name of the pub derives from the former use of the site as a mill, which by 1881 consisted of 12 cement kilns, drying flue and 14 distinctive bottle kilns.

The pub and ten bedroom hotel is set to open on March 21 It is expected the move will create 45 full and part-time jobs.

Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon said: “We are looking forward to opening our new pub in Dovercourt in March.

“We have been keen to open in the town for many years and pleased that this is now coming to fruition.

“We are confident that the pub will appeal to a wide range of people and also act as a catalyst for other businesses to invest in the town.”

Wetherspoon founder and chairman Tim Martin previously said he was delighted that so many Standard readers took the time to vote for their favourite name.

He added that he looked forward to seeing the name The Bottle Kiln above the door of the new pub.

The Tendring branch of the Campaign For Real Ale welcomed the “huge investment” in Dovercourt and Giles Watling, councillor responsible for planning at Tendring Council, said the plans would rejuvenate the site.