THE MAIN construction of Seaton Jurassic has been completed - with the attraction due to open in spring 2016.

The construction work started in September 2014. The internal installation of the exhibition halls, along with the cafe will be completed by February.

Harry Barton, chief executive of Devon Wildlife Trust, said: “This is a huge moment for east Devon.

"Come to Seaton and see for yourself what has changed. Seaton Jurassic, which has been dreamed of and talked about for more than a decade, has become real.

"It is a tribute to the vision and tenacity of the local community and everyone who kept faith in this great project.”

Seaton Jurassic aims to attract more than 50,000 people to east Devon each year. The centre is owned by East Devon District Council and forms part of the council’s regeneration activities aimed at boosting the local economy.

Mike Ruiter, Seaton Jurassic centre manager, said: “I’m very impressed with the building.

"The drawings looked great and the real thing is even better. During the build I had the pleasure of visiting the site regularly and each time felt a sense of wonder. I can’t wait to share that feeling with others when we open next year.”

The project has been funded by East Devon District Council, Devon County Council, Seaton Town Council, Heritage Lottery Fund, Coastal Communities Fund, Garfield Weston Foundation, Devon Wildlife Trust, Fine Family Foundation, Jurassic Coast Trust, Blue Marine Foundation and the Seaton Visitor Centre Trust.

“This is a very big moment for us and indeed Seaton as a whole," added Mr Ruiter.

"Locally people have been able to see the centre being erected from the ground up and now this iconic building is a reality, which is the result of far more than the recent construction works.

"People in town have lobbied for this new and exciting attraction for over a decade, so this is an important milestone.”

For more information, please visit seatonjurassic.org