A multi-million pound investment in a new luxury health spa will bring up to 20 jobs to Dorchester.

Monart Spa, said to be one of the world’s leading spa operators, is due to open at the Royal Pavilion in Queen Mother Square, the central hub and 'heart' of Poundbury in mid-October.

The state-of-the-art day spa is the first UK venture for award winning Monart Destination Spa, Ireland.

Monart is owned by the family-run Griffin Group, headed up by brothers Michael and Liam Anthony Griffin.

They currently own three properties in Ireland which include the Ferrycarrig hotel in Wexford and Hotel Kilkenny and the Monart Spa resort near Enniscorthy.

The Poundbury spa will be based on the ground floor of the Royal Pavilion, the flagship development being constructed by CG Fry & Son Ltd.

Director of Monart Spa - Poundbury Liam Anthony Griffin said: "We are thrilled and honoured to be working in partnership with the Duchy of Cornwall and CG Fry and Son on the development of Monart Spa - Poundbury.

"Our guests can treat themselves to spa treatments, as well as a thermal suite including caldarium, sauna, salt grotto, infrared pro cabin, aroma steam rooms and hydrotherapy pool."

The company says 15-20 jobs will be created.

The launch of Monart Spa marks a milestone in the Duchy’s investment in Poundbury and a highlight for its luxury apartments at the Royal Pavilion.

Managing director of CG Fry & Son Philip Fry said: "The Royal Pavilion development is a significant architectural landmark for Poundbury and home to our luxurious collection of twenty apartments, a joint venture with the Duchy of Cornwall, that brings design standards normally associated with Knightsbridge in London to Dorchester. Now residents will have the added pleasure of having a world-class spa on their doorstep too."

Monart Spa - Poundbury will be open six days a week. Food and drink will be available and local producers are being used.