The developer has secured forward funding from investors Legal and General Property and signed a pre-let agreement with Odeon.

Work is now set to start in the New Year on the five-level entertainment complex, housing a multiplex cinema, family restaurants and bistros.

Chris Dymond, director of Licet Holdings, said:  “With the funding in place, this is the final piece of the jigsaw for West Central to bring a fantastic new attraction and experience right into the very centre of Bournemouth for locals and visitors to enjoy year round.”

The scheme at the site of a former NCP car park has been beset by delays after being hit by the economic downturn and wrangles with Bournemouth council.