A project to transform two event spaces at Bournemouth International Centre (BIC), which look out towards Dorset’s Jurassic coastline, is set to get underway this August.
They include a new living roof at the venue’s Purbeck Hall entrance and a foyer remodelled with brand-new bathroom facilities.
Venue operator BH Live says it will create a more welcoming experience for visitors to events such as dinners, exhibitions and the seasonal Cool Coast Ice Rink which operates during the winter season.
In addition, the Purbeck Lounge, which is adjacent to the main Purbeck Hall, is being completely transformed with new glazing installations.
The bar is also being refurbished.
The lounge is regularly used for dinners, celebrations, networking and as a media hub for conferences and events.
The improvements will increase the room’s capacity and, says BH Live, significantly improve the overall experience.
In a bid to upgrade the venue’s conferencing and exhibition spaces, more than £1.8 million has recently been invested into the four-hall venue by BCP Council.
It’s supported with an additional £800,000 from BH Live.
Other recent investments include refurbishments to the Bourne Lounge and the BIC’s meeting room spaces, frequently used as workshop areas and syndicate rooms.
New AV tech has been installed with digital signage and screens throughout the venue.
Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) is managed and operated by BH Live, a registered charity and social enterprise, in partnership with BCP Council.
Steve Turner, BH Live’s Director of Venues, said: “Bournemouth International Centre brings hundreds of thousands of people to the region every year.
“Thanks to our joint investment with BCP Council, we are ensuring Bournemouth International Centre continues to provide visitors with a great experience whether they are visiting for a conference, exhibition, ice skating or entertainment.
“The venue generates tens of millions of pounds for the local economy every year, supporting thousands of jobs and local businesses.
“It’s vital we continue to invest and provide attractive and fit-for-purpose facilities to make Bournemouth and the surrounding region a great place to live, work, learn and play.”
Cllr Mike Cox, Portfolio Holder for Finance at BCP Council said: “As one of the South Coast’s leading venues, the Bournemouth International Centre is a huge asset to our area, and we are proud of our investment in its facilities.
“The recent improvement works, carried out by BHLive, really brings it in line with other modern venues across the country and ensures that we continue to attract top events Bournemouth.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the next phase of the project – in particular the living roof on the entrance to the Purbeck Hall which should be a great addition to this fantastic venue.”
- Purbeck Lounge concept art courtesy of Footprint Architects Ltd