Edinburgh-based firm Miller Construction has been announced as the preferred bidder for the contract to build a new £40m arts and innovation complex at Bangor University, Wales.

Work on the Pontio development is expected to get underway in May/June, with Grimshaw Architects
behind the building's design. Arup and Atkins are also involved with the project.

The 10,000sq m (107,639sq ft) complex will boast a theatre with a seating capacity of 450-550 people; a studio theatre; cinema space; an outdoor amphitheatre; and bar areas.

Meanwhile, Pontio will also include an innovation hub to encourage greater engagement with small- and medium-sized businesses and to drive the creation of new products.

Bangor University is fronting the development, which has received £27.5m from the Welsh Government and the European Regional Development Fund.

The Arts Council of Wales is also providing funding towards the scheme, stakeholders in which include Anglesey Council; Bangor City Council; and Gwynedd Council among others.

Dylan Roberts, the university's director of estates, said: "Following a very robust process, Miller Construction have been selected as the preferred bidder for the Pontio build."

Details: www.pontio.co.uk