It is hoped the plan will transform the centre into the best in Wales

Conwy Council is seeking to extend the town's North Wales Conference Centre and has submitted bids for European Union Objective One and the Welsh assembly's 'Pathways to Prosperity' funding.

But to expand the centre, the council has to get planning permission to demolish the neighbouring derelict century-old Arcadia Theatre.

The theatre is in the seaside resort's conservation area and has been deserted for 10 years.

A council spokeswoman said: "The aim of this project is to position the North Wales Theatre and Conference Centre as the key exhibition and conference venue in Wales and the resort of Llandudno as a major cultural breaks destination."

The centre is a popular conference venue and is regularly used for political and other conferences.

It is due to hold the annual representative meeting of the British Medical Association next year.

Video conferencing

But the council believes more can be done to place Llandudno higher up the destination list for events.

A funding package is also being developed in partnership with the Welsh Development Agency, Arts Council for Wales and Wales Tourist Board, said the spokeswoman.

The development plans include a new 2,000 square metre exhibition hall, new syndicate rooms equipped with video conferencing and a business centre for delegates.

The scheme has been supported by a feasibility study undertaken by business advisors PriceWaterhouseCoopers.

The authority is hoping to get approval next spring and they hope construction work will begin in early summer.