WORK to transform Wirral’s former Pacific Roads Arts Centre into a business hub is nearing completion.

Wirral Chamber of Commerce secured planning permission to convert the Grade II-listed building into office and retail space for “knowledge economy” firms in 2013, taking out a long-term tenancy agreement of the council-owned building.

The refit work began in February and is due to end in the next few weeks. The hub will officially open on September 2.

Artist's impression of how the Pacific Road business hub will look

Wirral Globe:

Wirral Globe:

The view from what was the stage onto the redeveloped auditorium

Paula Basnett, chamber chief executive, said, "We are thrilled at the transformation which is taking place at Pacific Road, from what was once a top venue for the arts is now becoming a centre of excellence for businesses.

“The redevelopment is nearly complete and we are looking forward to officially opening the building on September 2, when we will be welcoming a diverse mix of companies to their new business home. "

Wirral Globe:

Signs of transformation work underway at Pacific Road

Originally built in the 19th century as a maritime trade storage site, Pacific Road later became a tram museum and then an arts and live entertainment centre.

It became the principal venue for the acclaimed Wirral International Guitar Festival - now staged at the Floral Pavilion in New Brighton - attracting music fans from across the country and overseas.

But its future was thrown into doubt in 2010 when it was declared "surplus to requirements" by the council and it closed a year later.

KGB Music, an established guitar-repair firm based in the centre, will stay on the site as part of the development.