Merlin Entertainments has announced that the renovated Blackpool Tower is set to be 'fully operational' by 1 September - in time for the 2011 illuminations season.

Nick Varney, global chief executive officer at Merlin, told a press conference that work on a major overhaul of the Tower's tourism offer were progressing ahead of schedule.

A 'Dungeons' and an 'Eye' attraction are to be added to Blackpool Tower to sit alongside the existing Ballroom, Jungle Jim's and Circus.

It is anticipated that 1 September will mark the completion of the first - and most extensive - phase of the Tower Transformation project.

The Tower's observation deck will be reopened as the Blackpool Tower Eye with a new 4D cinema experience, while Blackpool Tower Dungeon will also launch.

Blackpool Council leader Peter Callow said: "The Council taking ownership of leisure attractions was a very ambitious proposal and we are delighted to have Merlin here in Blackpool operating the Tower."