An application to use a neighbouring terrace in a corner of the park for eating and drinking is expected to receive council approval on Monday.

However, conditions will be imposed for the sake of people living nearby in the Devonshire Quarter. Use of the outdoor café will have to end by 11pm and permission is being granted for two years, when the situation will be reviewed.

In general, though, the authority is welcoming the prospect of adding "vitality to this public open space".

Sixteen tables accommodating 64 customers are being envisaged by The Forum, which was a catalyst for the emergence of the Devonshire Quarter as the city centre's cosmopolitan fringe.

It already has an open air terrace off Eldon Street with a design influenced by the Spanish architect Antonio Gaudi – a design that is reflected in part of the new Devonshire Green.

The £1.6m project to refurbish the green, financed by developers of the surrounding student and private flats, is now complete.

The facelift has included the laying of new turf, the planting of bulbs and trees, the construction of sculptured 'sitting walls', the installation of new lighting and the creation of an amphitheatre as a venue for music festivals and other events.

Les Sturch, the council's interim director of development services, said: "We are thrilled that Devonshire Green has been transformed into an area which visitors can enjoy and residents can feel proud of.

"By improving the space we have created an area that can be used by a whole range of people for a variety of purposes including events and festivals. We have also improved the lighting and amenities which make it safer for everyone."