A second Liberal Democrat conference in Brighton, will bring a £2 million boost to the south coast economy.

On the eve of the party’s autumn conference in Brighton, the Liberal Democrats have announced they will return to the city in March for their annual spring gathering.

More than 2,500 delegates are expected to attend the three-day event.

Bosses see it as a “significant win” for VisitBrighton’s convention bureau, which was instrumental in bringing the event to the city.

Adam Bates, Brighton and Hove City Council ’s head of tourism and leisure, said: “It’s great to know that, aside from the nitty-gritty of policy-making and debate, delegates enjoy coming to Brighton.

“It’s been a challenging year for many businesses, especially with the long spell of wet weather, but ongoing refurbishment programmes and investment in the city’s venues has helped to boost business trade.

“It’s clear that the city’s full programme of cultural and creative events are assets and this all helps to make Brighton an attractive destination for conference delegates.”

The Lib Dems autumn conference starts this weekend and runs until Wednesday, September 26.