summer after achieving planning permission for renovations.

The tourist attraction has been at Dockyard since September 1999 when the coastal pen at the Southampton Princess was battered by hurricane Gert.

Dolphin Quest was criticised for inadequately protecting the mammals during the storm after two escaped their badly damaged pens.

The Development Applications Board (DAB) this week approved an application to revamp the facility and work is expected to begin in April.

Dolphin Quest general manager Michelle Mihelcic said it is hoped the facility will re-open in Southampton in August.

But Dockyard will remain as a safe haven for the eight dolphins if another hurricane hits the Island.

One of the main parts of the renovation will be to upgrade the road so that the dolphins can be winched to safety in the event of another hurricane.

Ms Mihelcic said: "We've very excited about it. The hotel is our partner and we all want to get back here.