Hull City Council has approved plans for a new conference facility in the centre of Hull.

The new £36million centre will include a 3,500 capacity concert auditorium with the flexibility to reduce to a 2,500 all-seated event and a 2,000sq-mt exhibition space plus an 800-capacity conference auditorium.

It is expected to open in 2018 and will form part of Hull’s Beverley Gate redevelopment. Conference delegates will also enjoy panoramic views across Hull Marina.

The new centre will be part of Hull’s plan to secure a long-term legacy following its year as UK City of Culture in 2017.