It welcomes more than 300,000 visitors every year and has witnessed its fair share of historic events over the last four decades.
And today, the Bournemouth International Centre – known to many as the BIC – celebrates its 40th birthday.
The award-winning venue, built at a cost of £18 million, opened on September 6, 1984, and has become popular for hosting conferences, exhibitions, cultural events, entertainment and hospitality.
It hosts a versatile range of music, musicals, and comedy events year-round in partnership with its in-house event teams and industry promoters.
The BIC has four main halls including a 6,200-capacity standing arena.
International superstars who have played there include Gary Barlow, One Direction, Tom Jones, Dolly Parton, Barry Manilow and Bob Dylan.
Other headliners over the past 40 years include performances from Diana Ross, Oasis, Girls Aloud, and Sir Elton John.
From Rum & Reggae Festivals, Oktoberfest, and Tattoo Exhibitions, there is no showcase, exhibition or theme the venue has not hosted.
Business events, conferences, and exhibitions are an integral feature as well.
Known for attracting high-profile clients from around the UK and Europe, the BIC is frequently attended by delegates from leading charities, professional associations, religious institutions, corporate clients, and public sector organisations.
The venue regularly accommodates major trade shows and high-profile conferences such as political parties, national union congresses and medical associations.
Exhibitions are also held at the venue throughout the year and have included wedding shows, flower shows, gin festivals, gaming expos, and pop culture conventions such as Bournemouth Film & Comic Con.
For the past 13 years, the BIC has been operated by registered charity BH Live in partnership with BCP Council.
Steve Turner, BH Live’s Associate Director of Venues said: “40 years of making a difference in our local community is such a huge milestone to celebrate.
“Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) benefits so many people whether that is through coming to see a cultural event, attending a business event, or visiting one of our seasonal attractions.
“Furthermore, as BH Live is a registered charity, any surplus revenue generated through our services is reinvested back into our local facilities to make sure we continue to have visitor appeal and keep bringing people into the town.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported us and visited the BIC over this past 40 years – and here’s to many more – we couldn’t do it without you.”