A £200,000 scheme to put Blackburn's public halls back on the major concert map has been completed.

The floor of King George's Hall has been strengthened to allow standing concerts featuring famous rock and pop acts.

And at the same time Blakeys Cafe Bar has udergone a major re-fit which leisure bosses say will strengthen its position as a leading town centre venue.

The last standing concert at King George's Hall featured Robbie Williams in May 1998 but, since then, numbers have been strictly limited because of safety fears.

While Blakey's has been refurbished, steel strengthening has been installed to the main concert hall floor.

Steve Rigby, of leisure and cultural services, said the refurbishments are in line with the council's overall regeneration strategy.

" We aim to re-establish King George's Hall as a number one touring venue for rock and pop," said Steve. " Blakey's's Cafe Bar will be fully-air-conditioned and the minimalist contemporary look will consolidate its position as the largest and most up-to-date cafe bar in the town centre."

Councillor Kate Hollern paid tribute to the staff at the public halls and Blakey's who kept things going from their temporary home in the Windsor Suite while the work was carried out.

" I am sure our customers will be delighted with the new-look Blakey's," said Councillor Hollern.

" We have introduced air-conditioning and bright new furniture and I am confident that Blakey's will strengthen its reputation as one of the top town centre venues."

During refurbishment work the entire Blakey's operation was transferred to the Windsor Suite and, as a result of positive customer comments, an 80's retro night "Club Tropicana" will run in the Suite every Saturday night between 10pm and 2am.

It is hoped the club will operate successfully alongside Blakey's and admission will be free. Blakey's re-opens to the public on Wednesday.