Neptune Developments has completed the first phase of a £40m revamp of Southport Theatre & Convention Centre in Sefton, Merseyside.

The scheme, designed by Southport-based architects NJSR, saw a new glass-fronted entrance foyer and link lobby being added to the site, along with new lifts to all floors, and new bar and catering areas to the site.

Allenbuild were lead contractors on the project, which also included the restoration of the art-deco Floral Hall, and the refurbishment of the Lakeside Suite.

The second phase of the scheme, to be completed later this year, will include a new 750sq m (8,073sq ft) multipurpose Waterfront Suite, and a four star, 133-bedroom Ramada Plaza hotel with bars, restaurants and meeting facilities.

New World Group will operate the hotel on behalf of its investor, Even Group.

There will also be a new open air plaza with al fresco dining overlooking Marine Lake, and a Stanley casino.

The Theatre and Convention Centre, owned and managed by Sefton council, will have 2,000sq m (21,528sq ft) of exhibition space after the additions are complete.

“Southport is fast becoming a conference destination to be envied and I am certain the new look centre will continue to attract new business from the UK and even beyond,” said Maxine McCarthy, conference and corporate sales manager for Sefton council. “Business tourism and the conferencing aspect is forever expanding in the region and the Convention Centre will help generate millions of pounds for the resort and Sefton.”