Scarborough Borough Council (SBC) has approved plans for a multi-million pound revamp of the town's Spa complex in a bid to transform the site into a new entertainment venue.

The Grade II-listed building, which was first opened during the 19th century, is now set to undergo a major upgrade of its interior facilities, including the grand hall, the sun court, the buffet bar and the caretaker's cottage. Plans for the Grand Hall include the creation of additional backstage areas, new lift pits, a refurbished dance floor and an extended stage, while the foyer will be renovated and the buffet bar will benefit from a raised floor.

New glass pavilions will be constructed on the first floor terrace area and a roof awning provided for the sun court also form part of the proposals, which were backed by the council on 10 September. A report to SBC planners said: "The renovation of the Spa will enable a wider programme of events to be staged, appealing to a more varied audience and also enhance the business activity by capturing a greater proportion of the conference market.

"Redeveloping the Spa will strengthen the wider South Bay cultural quarter complementing the recently completed Rotunda Museum Woodend Creative Workspace and the Art Gallery, while also continuing the theme of preserving and showcasing the grandeur of Scarborough's architectural heritage."