SOUTHAMPTON Guildhall is to be renamed, the Daily Echo can reveal.

The Grade II listed building will be renamed O2 Guildhall Southampton in a move Southampton City Council has described as a “massive step forward” in the establishment of city's Cultural Quarter.

The city council-owned venue, which is operated by Live Nation UK, will become the 16th in the country to be named after the mobile phone company.

The venue, which opened in 1937, plays host to a wealth of entertainment including rock, pop, comedy, classical orchestras and family entertainment.

Paul Latham, chief operating officer of Live Nation, said: “This is a fabulous example of how we at Live Nation work with our respective partners to deliver a great offering to our customers.

“In this instance, we are combining the heritage and civic pride of our partner at Southampton Council with the vision and talent of our marketing partners at O2, to deliver enhanced facilities and engagement opportunities.”

Cllr Matt Tucker, cabinet member for economic development and leisure services for Southampton City Council, said: “Having this landmark building, as an O2 venue, represents a massive step forward in the establishment of the city's Cultural Quarter.

“This new relationship will help ensure that O2 Guildhall Southampton remains one of the most important event venues on the South Coast, encourage more visitors to the city and provide value for the people of Southampton.”