SIXTY new jobs could be created by the start of next year at the Esplanades new bowling alley, bucking the gloomy trend of businesses closing in the town.

SIXTY new jobs could be created by the start of next year at the Esplanades new bowling alley, bucking the gloomy trend of businesses closing in the town.

Businessman Mark Quinn, of Harlequins Leisure, said jobs in running the new complex once it had opened would be available - after drink and food contracts were finalised.

The first phase of the complex - the bar and bowling alley - could be open in September, after a myriad of delays, the latest being work on the roof.

He said: "I hope the first phase open later this year.

"It will be followed by the restaurant and children's areas and the last phase; the function room will be finished in about 12 months time."

"It will be a development Exmouth will be proud of.