Bournemouth Borough Council (BBC) has announced it is planning to redevelop the town's "detested" IMAX building, after confirming that it had secured a deal to acquire the property on 1 February.

The local authority said it had given the current occupiers "enough time" to come up with plans for the future of the site and has unveiled its own plans for a leisure, arts and entertainment facility, while also removing an eyesore from the seafront. However, any redevelopment of the site is dependent on BBC securing vacant possession from the remaining sub-tenants. Talks are set to get underway with relevant stakeholders, while a Compulsory Purchase Order will also be sought.

BBC leader Stephen MacLoughlin said: "This is the first step in the process and there are still a number of hurdles to be overcome before we can bring back some sea views and commence development of an all-weather attraction. This will take time and will not happen overnight." Council deputy leader John Beesley added: "This is a prime seafront location and our aspirations extend beyond simply just getting rid of this eyesore. We want to develop a new facility which can accommodate leisure, arts, culture and entertainment attractions for the public to enjoy whatever the weather."