A HAMPSHIRE firm has been given a £5million contract to help build Southampton’s newest entertainment hub.

Winchester-based construction company the Lakesmere Group will be part of the team that will construct the new £85million WestQuay Watermark complex.

More than 15 years ago, the firm delivered the roofing and cladding of the neighbouring WestQuay Shopping Centre.

As reported by the Daily Echo, scores of new tenants have already signed up for spots in the new centre.

The company is undertaking the design, supply and installation of the full external weatherproof shell of the centre and also delivering the scheme’s new roof, which has been designed to meet strict acoustic requirements to minimise noise from the new 10-screen cinema.

Work is now under way on the contract with the first phase of the construction including a new cinema, restaurants and a large public plaza area.

The first phase of the new WestQuay Watermark development is set to open in the autumn.

Bowling alley chain Hollywood Bowl is set to build its first Southampton outlet. The firm has another venue at the Swan Centre in Eastleigh.

Meanwhile American restaurant chain TGI Fridays will build a 738 square metre development at the centre.

Popular chicken restaurant Nando’s and American burger brand Five Guys are other famous names to be part of the development.