Vinci Construction is to start work on a new multi-million pound performance venue in the centre of Doncaster - part of the town's new Civic and Cultural Quarter development.

Muse Developments is working alongside Doncaster Council on the project, which secured £2.1m from Arts Council England and will see the arts venue open its doors in spring 2013. A 600-seat main auditorium; a 200-seat/400-standing flexible performing space; drama and dance studios; education facilities; and a foyer will form part of the new centre.

Other facilities will include a bar; a box office; dressing rooms; ancillary spaces; and a café, while a large area of public realm is also proposed to complement the venue. Doncaster mayor Peter Davies said: "The new performance venue will be the cultural heartbeat of the development and promises to be another wonderful addition to Doncaster's growing portfolio of attractions.

"The new venue is far more than a direct replacement of the Civic Theatre, it will offer something for everyone to take part in or enjoy. Doncaster has much to look forward to." Work is due for completion on another phase of the Civic and Cultural Quarter scheme - including civic offices for the council - next year.