A multi-million-pound investment plan has been revealed for the Harrogate Convention Centre, aiming to enhance its facilities, boost its competitiveness in the conference market and drive significant economic benefits for the region.

The proposed £7 million upgrade focuses on transforming the venue’s Studio Two into larger breakout rooms capable of accommodating around 1,300 delegates. The improvements are designed to strengthen the centre’s position in the competitive conference and events sector.

If approved, the upgraded facilities could generate an additional £1.5 million annually, further cementing the centre’s role as a key economic driver for the region. To maximise the potential of this investment, councillors will also explore transitioning to a more commercial operating model, which would reduce the financial subsidies currently provided by the local authority and pave the way for future private investment.

-- Advertisement --

The proposals will be discussed at a council meeting on Tuesday, 17 December,

A business strategy launched in 2019/20 has seen a 21 per cent increase in income from lettings at the convention centre and forward bookings indicate potential growth of more than £4 million each year.

With an initial investment of £7 million, the revamped Studio Two is projected to ultimately generate an additional £1.5 million in annual income. It is expected that this would reduce the annual operating subsidy to about £1 million, although a detailed business case would be required before the investment is approved.

A marketing exercise has since been undertaken by a consultancy firm called 31Ten, which has wide experience of the conference market, to highlight future opportunities for the convention centre.

The review identified five possible options which ranged from doing nothing to selling the building. The option to focus on the new studio development and a more commercial operating model is seen as the best way forward by the consultants.