Sea Church in Ballycotton will open tonight as a new intimate music and events venue and restaurant.

Following a multi-million euro restoration by local entrepreneur Pearse Flynn, the church will function as a music venue with a capacity of 120. 

It opens this weekend with The Frank and Walters performing tomorrow night and Lisa Hannigan performing on Saturday and Sunday. 

Other artists lined up over the coming months include John Spillane, Jack O’Rourke and Mary Coughlan.

Mr Flynn purchased St Coleman’s Church in 2018 and has worked closely with architects, interior designers, restoration experts and specialist builders to create the unique venue and return the building to its former glory. 

Speaking about the project, Pearse Flynn said: “Ballycotton and the surrounding area has enormous potential. It is so beautiful and unspoiled. 

"The trick to the Sea Church development was to get the balance right and to retain its original charm. 

"The design of the restaurant had to come from the surrounding beauty. We wanted to maintain the harmony of life and give a modern maritime feel inside the restaurant while steering away from the traditional. 

"I believe we have achieved a look that is fresh and contemporary while paying homage to the beauty of the surrounding countryside.”