Guildford Borough Council (GBC) has raised the curtain on a new entertainment venue for the Surrey town, which has been designed by UK-based architects Austin-Smith: Lord.

G Live was built by Willmott Dixon Construction and will be run by HQ Theatres, with the building comprising an auditorium with a capacity of 1,000 seated or 1,700 standing.

Hampshire-based consultancy Scott Wilson also worked on the delivery of the venue, which also includes a 100-seat studio space for small performances; a café bar; and foyer spaces.

GBC said that it expects G Live to become a "landmark" venue for performing arts, culture and entertainment, with a full programme of events now underway.

A council spokesperson said: "The programme will include top rock and pop concerts as well as a wide range of comedy, classical music, dance, children's and family shows.

"This makes sure there is something to suit all tastes and that Guildford has a venue of regional and national stature."