Multi-million pound upgrade to Bournemouth's BIC now complete
The Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) on Dorset's south coast has seen a multi-million pound upgrade to its facilities and events spaces.
BCP Council pledged £1.8 million to complete the improvement works, bolstered by £800,000 of investment from BH Live - the operator of sports and leisure centres, theatres, and event venues.
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Among the improvements, the BIC’s first-floor 256 sq m Bourne lounge, which has panoramic sea views, has been transformed.
It can now be converted into a breakout area with a capacity of 200 (theatre style) for hosting private events, speakers, exhibitions, and functions, while the in-house dining space Elevate Brasserie & Bar has also been remodelled.
The Purbeck Lounge, which is adjacent to the main Purbeck Hall, has also been transformed with new sea-facing windows and doors.
State-of-the-art digital screens have been installed inside and out of the venue. There is also improved wireless connectivity, lighting rig improvements, and energy-efficient LED fixtures.
Earlier this year, the venue's meetings hub, business lounge and breakout areas spanning 313 sq m were fully refurbished.
"Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) continues to generate tens of millions of pounds for the local economy year-on-year by providing employment and driving footfall to local businesses and public services," said Steve Turner, BH Live's director of venues.
"By providing attractive facilities through investment such as this, we are ensuring that Bournemouth and the surrounding region remains a fantastic place to live, work, learn and play for all.
"We are delighted this latest phase of work has completed and are looking forward to welcoming visitors and delegates back to the new and improved Purbeck Lounge and Purbeck Hall.
"Thanks to our joint investment with BCP Council, thousands of visitors will benefit from the venue’s enhanced facilities, ensuring a great experience whether they are attending a conference, exhibition, ice skating session, or concert."
The BIC is managed and operated by registered charity and social enterprise, BH Live in partnership with BCP Council.
It is frequently attended by delegates from leading charities, trade unions, professional associations, religious conventions, corporations, and public sector organisations.
Upcoming investments at the BIC also include improvements to the multi-storey car park, landscaping enhancements, and additional sustainability investments.
