An artist's impression of how the conference centre will look inside

Phase one of the project will begin in March 2008, with work starting on a �3m conference and performing arts centre.

The Wrexham campus will also boast a new theatre which seats 320 people.

The college said the project, jointly funded by the institute and the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales (HEFCW), would have a "positive impact" on students and the community.

The institute said the new buildings would help meet a growing demand for "courses related to the needs of the new creative industries".

"Huge asset"

The Crispin Lane conference centre will be developed on the Plas Coch campus and, as well as a theatre, will also include five meeting rooms with "ultra-modern" facilities.

The institute said the theatre would also "provide a setting for community and international theatre, music and art."

Newi principal, Professor Michael Scott, said: "The developments to the infrastructure and campus will have a positive impact, not only on the students who will use the facilities, but also on the community.

"A venue of this calibre will be a huge asset to Wrexham."

The second phase of the development will include building a new design, technology and media centre.

Professor Scott added: "We will be able to offer undergraduate and postgraduate students access to the latest in technology within an innovative teaching and learning environment."