Plans for a new £35m arts and innovation centre in Bangor, North Wales, have taken a step forward after Bangor University announced the start of design work.

The Pontio Project - a name derived from the Welsh word for "to bridge" - will include the creation of a dynamic innovation hub, learning facilities and a new home for the university's students' union. Indoor and outdoor performance spaces, including a 450-seat theatre, a rehearsal studio, cinema space and an outdoor amphitheatre, are also being planned as part of the scheme.

London-based architects Grimshaw; Yorkshire-based consultants Atkins and design firm Arup have been appointed to design the building, with initial designs due to be revealed in April ahead of a public exhibition. The scheme, which has been supported by a £15m grant from the Welsh Assembly Government, is set to provide showcase facilities to enable the display of work using the latest digital technology.

Bangor University deputy vice-chancellor Professor Fergus Lowe said: "This is the project that will put Bangor on the map and will help to regenerate the city's urban heart. "It will provide a centre of such remarkable innovation and artistic excellence that it is sure to draw the attention of people from near and far, as well as providing new impetus to the growth of the North Wales economy."

Image: Bangor University vice chancellor Professor Merfyn Jones (left) and Professor Lowe