PLANS for a cinema, arts centre and creative office space in Hoylake have moved a step closer to reality after a £3.64m boost from Government.

The Beacon Arts Village, from Hylgar Properties Ltd, was granted cash from the Coastal Communities Fund to refurbish and modernise Hoylake's former town hall building.

Based on Albert Road, the Edwardian building will feature a small one or two-screen cinema/arts space with associated cafe/bistro, fine dining restaurant, atrium cafe/bar with small retail units around a central courtyard.

Original plans also outlined that there would be retail units for artists and makers along with 40 apartments on four levels.

Planning permission had been granted by Wirral Council in August 2018 with the backing of Wirral West MP Margaret Greenwood and Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram.

Ms Greenwood told the Globe: “I am delighted that a grant has been secured through the Coastal Communities Fund (CCF) for the development of The Beacon in Hoylake. This ambitious project has real potential to turn Hoylake into a vibrant and creative community and business hub.

“The creation of a new cinema, café and office space will attract visitors from across the region and will bring jobs and investment to Hoylake.

“I know from speaking to constituents that there is a great deal of public support for The Beacon and the benefits it will bring to the area.

“I would like to congratulate all those involved for their hard work, commitment and vision in developing these plans, especially Mark Howard and everyone involved in the Hoylake Beacon Project.

“I believe that The Beacon will prove to be a fantastic addition to the creative economy in Wirral and I am looking forward to the next stage of its development.”

At the time, the Hoylake Beacon steering group - a group of volunteers facilitating the project - said hundreds had written to them endorsing the proposals.

The scheme is set to create around 60 new jobs and hopes to establish a 'vibrant' new destination to the heart of Hoylake.

Northern Powerhouse and coastal communities minister Jake Berry said: “This is an investment in the future of the Northern Powerhouse and our coastal communities which builds on their rich heritage and huge potential.

“The world-class attractions and innovative businesses supported by the coastal community fund and the Coastal Revival Fund will increase tourism, encourage investment and ensure people thrive up and down the Great British Coast.”

The cinema would screen the latest releases as well as live-streamed entertainment and a range of films including specialist, independent and documentaries.

Live entertainment including music, comedy, dance and theatre will also be available in the bar while the restaurant will offer guests fine dining.

A total of £9.8m will be invested in the North West thanks to the Coastal Communities Fund, supporting more than 12,000 jobs and set to attract up to £14 million in additional investment from the public and private sectors.