A BUDGET of £1.2 million has been set to revamp the inside of one of Southampton’s most famous buildings.

With alterations – mainly in behind-closed-doors areas – including new office spaces, meeting rooms and a fresh reception area, city council chiefs hope that improvements to the Civic Centre will make for a better working and visiting environment.

However, Southampton City Council leader Christopher Hammond has promised that the changes will be “in-keeping within the style of the historic significance of the building”.

The listed building, which is home to the authority, Southampton City Art Gallery, and Southampton Guildhall, has stood since 1932.

Other work includes the removal and moving of existing walls to create bigger working spaces, and improve the spread of natural light.

Electrical, mechanical and fire alarm systems are also set to be upgraded.

The plans have been approved by the authority’s planning bosses, although proposals for the remodelling of the reception counter will require a separate application.

Cllr Hammond, said: “All old buildings need to be repaired and maintained for future generations. The Civic Centre is no different.

“The building was built in the early 1930’s and the way in which it is used has changed since the introduction of computers and other technology. Due to changing needs, alterations in terms of office space and lay out are necessary to modernise the working environment, whilst ensuring it is in-keeping within the style of the historic significance of the building.

“The phase of proposed changes along with new technology will include the moving of existing walls and doors, the removal of a number of existing small rooms used as storage/office space/meeting rooms and alterations to the electrical, mechanical and fire alarm systems; improving natural light ingress and increasing space for employees and visitors to the Civic Centre.

“These works will enable flexible ways of working for staff, helping us to become an agile modern organisation. This will also increase the use of the building and enable savings and potential additional income from reducing the use of other buildings, as well as centralising public areas in the building to make it easier for our customers to access our services.”

The work will be spread over two phases. It is not yet known when they will start.