Ambitious plans for the Summerland site in Douglas have been announced.

Proposals by the Sefton Group, described as "a family leisure facility for all age groups", have been accepted by the Department of Tourism and Leisure.

They include multiplex cinemas, ten-pin bowling, childrens' facilities and exhibition areas.

The new centre will be known as "The Wave".

The Sefton Group and the Department of Tourism and Leisure have entered into a temporary licence on the site for up to four months, to allow detailed investigations of the area to be undertaken.

Should these be successful Tynwald's approval will be sought for a formal long term lease.

A number of expressions of interest had been received by the department before the Sefton Group was selected.

The group is now required to come up with required approvals and essential surveys by the end of June this year.

Tourism Minister Martyn Quayle says the plans fulfil his department's objectives for the site and adds that they will provide much needed family leisure facilities for the Island.

Separate areas for a casino and bingo are envisaged by the developers.

Chief operating officer Mark Lewin says the Sefton Group is delighted to have been chosen and is now committed to further investment.

Once the surveys and consultation are completed the plans will be considered by Tynwald in July.