Southampton-based Aquarium operator Blue Reef Leisure has acquired its fourth site in Hastings.

The company, which runs three Blue Reef Aquariums in Newquay, Portsmouth and Tynemouth, has acquired Underwater World from Hastings Heritage.

The company will now invest more than £1m to redevelop Hastings aquarium into a visitor attraction.

The new aquarium will feature a series ofnew displays showcasing marine creatures from around the world in naturally themed environments alongside a daily talks and feeding programme and a calendar of special events and activities throughout the year.

Visitors will embark on a journey from the British coast through warmer waters to exotic tropical seas.

Blue Reef Leisure’s Ian Cunningham said: “We plan to completely transform the former Underwater World site over the winter and re-open it to visitors as the Blue Reef Aquarium in time for Easter.

“As well as a total re-design we will also be turning the giant underwater walkthrough tunnel display into a stunning tropical coral reef which will be home to hundreds of brightly coloured fish, stingrays and black tip reef sharks.

“A key part of the Blue Reef ethos is interaction, both with our aquarists and with the marine world, to create memorable experiences. Our intention is to get people much more involved during their visit.”

As part of the deal Blue Reef will also take over the running of Smugglers Adventure in the town and continue to operate the 1066 Story.

Cunningham said: ““It is an excellent visitor attraction with huge potential for growth. Our plan is to keep Smugglers Adventure open and trading and we will also continue to run the 1066 Story.”