Jobs pledge over BIC revamp

Thousands flocked to the BIC for this year's Labour Party conference

Improving the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) would bring hundreds of jobs and millions of pounds to the town, according to a new report.

A bigger and better BIC could create 1,302 new jobs and earn the Dorset resort an extra £21m, a study commissioned by the South West Regional Development Agency says.

The seaside venue hosted this year's Labour Party conference and regularly attracts thousands of visitors for pop concerts, exhibitions and other special events.

The report warns that 300 jobs could go if the BIC is not improved.

Bournemouth Borough Council must decide on 21 January to go ahead with an £18m redevelopment.

The plan proposes creating more flexible space for conferences and leisure events by scrapping the existing swimming pool and extending and refurbishing the Windsor Hall.

Car park, catering spaces and public areas would also be extended and refurbished.