Preliminary works on Chester’s £37m iconic cultural centre will start next month (October) – well ahead of schedule.

Culture and economy chief councillor Stuart Parker revealed building contractors and specialist archaeologists will descend on the Upper Northgate Street site in mid-October to start works, months ahead of the previous plan.

The new venue is scheduled to end with an opening night in autumn 2016.

Cllr Parker said: “We moved heaven and earth to get the planning application before committee a month earlier than planned to ensure the best possible chance of meeting our curtain call on time.

“Those who said this day would never dawn did not reckon with the amazing support we have from the public, cultural organisations, the Arts Council and council members across the political spectrum.”

Chester Performs chief executive Andrew Bentley was delighted with the announcement of an early start to the theatre his combined arts producing company will manage.

Mr Bentley said: “This determination to start work on site as early as possible, and to get ahead of schedule, will give us the very best chance of getting on stage, and in the amazing new library, as soon as we can.

“We are already advancing some of our planning on the programme to match and are eagerly looking forward to the fruits of this wonderful partnership.”

The cultural centre includes an 800-seat theatre, 120-seat cinema, fully integrated library, cafe and offices.

Opposition culture spokesman Cllr Louise Gittins said: “The start of work will be welcomed across West Cheshire. We want the cultural centre to be a catalyst for the arts and education for all age groups right across the borough.”

The centre will be situated on the site of the former Odeon cinema and Commerce House – demolished last October – which are located near the centre of the Roman Legionary fortress.