The development also includes the addition of an underground car park, an outdoor covered ‘piazza style’ dining area and an enlarged, more spectacular entrance.
Venue bosses are keen to achieve a British Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method ‘excellent rating’ through the inclusion of a green roof; use of sustainable fuels; rainwater harvesting and other similar measures to minimise any environmental impacts.
The project has been supported by Yorkshire Forward, the regional development agency, which has part-funded the expansion along with Harrogate Borough Council and is scheduled to complete by autumn 2011.
"I am delighted to be a part of this exciting regeneration programme and the benefits of this new scheme will be far reaching for all concerned," said HIC director Stuart Quin.
"We will now be able to offer not just additional exhibition space but spaces capable of hosting larger experiential events, banquets, corporate productions and product launches than ever before. This will in turn enable us to attract and host an even wider range of national and international events benefiting the whole town."
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