The project stalled this summer after original contractor R Durtnell & Sons hit financial problems and parted company with client Brighton & Hove City Council.

Durtnell – which is Britain’s oldest builder – entered a Corporate Voluntary Arrangement with creditors owed more than £8m.

Ahead of pre-contract discussions Westridge will undertake essential weatherproofing and drainage works to protect and conserve the historic Grade I and Grade II listed buildings.

Andrew Comben, Chief Executive, Brighton Dome & Brighton Festival said: “We are grateful to Brighton & Hove City Council for their commitment and swift action on procuring an interim contractor.

“Westridge have an impressive track record of working on heritage building projects such as Ditchling Museum and Battle Abbey.

“We are delighted they are a local company and together with project architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, we look forward to collaborating with their team on progressing the project.”

Martin Buckthorpe, Managing Director, Westridge Construction said: “It is a pleasure to have been chosen as the preferred contractor to continue works on this prestigious building, reinforcing our positive ongoing relationship with Brighton & Hove City Council.

“Brighton Dome Corn Exchange and Studio Theatre project retains Westridge’s presence in the city centre, following the successful completion of the Hannington Lane development earlier this year.

“Brighton’s historic landmarks play a key role in the local community and we are honoured to be playing our part in their on-going restoration.”