THE first phase of Poole's £5.3 million Lighthouse Theatre refurbishment has started.

Initial works, due for completion in September, include improvements to the art venue's cinema sound insulation and the creation of a new lobby between the cinema and studio theatre.

This £116,000 summer phase of the project is being carried out by Poole-based construction specialists Stepnell.

The complete refurbishment, including improvements to the main foyer, concert hall, studio and backstage modernisation, is due to be completed by October 2016.

Lighthouse chief executive, Elspeth McBain, said: "We believe that arts and culture are an integral part of life and contribute significantly to the economic and cultural health of communities.

"By ensuring Lighthouse is well maintained and up to date our community can continue to enjoy world class performances locally."

As well as staging live events, theatre, dance, contemporary circus and film, the Lighthouse Theatre also serves as home to the world-renowned Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra.

Stepnell contacts manager, Trevor Middleton, said: "As a local firm we're thrilled to be working on this building which is rightly cherished by the community in Poole and Dorset as a world-class cultural venue.

"We're absolutely delighted to be bringing our construction and sustainability expertise to this project, delivering significant improvements for visitors and staff and helping make the building more environmentally efficient."

This first phase of works will also include a new staff room and duty manager's office on the ground floor and improved security to the first-floor bar.

Ms McBain said: "Lighthouse is delighted to have appointed a local company, Stepnell, to undertake the first phase of building works this summer.

"This is the start of a series of improvements we are making to the Lighthouse over the next 18 months and we are looking forward to seeing the results of Stepnell's expertise."