Tate's plans for a major multi-million pound redevelopment of its original London gallery - Tate Britain - have been given the green light by the local authority.

Westminster City Council (WCC) has approved the scheme, which is set to cost around £45m and is designed to improve the attraction's galleries and conserve the 19th century Sidney Smith-designed building. Core visitor areas will be remodelled and renovated in order to open up the domed atrium at the heart of Tate Britain, while learning studios and public spaces will also be created to meet increasing demand.

Designs for the Grade II*-listed attraction have been drawn up by Caruso St John Architects and will also include the revamp of the main entrance on Millbank and an overhaul of nine galleries. The River Room, formerly a watercolour gallery room divided into three offices, will be restored to one single room for public use, while a café is set to open out onto the garden.

Alistair Moss, chair of WCC's planning and city development committee, said: "Westminster is renowned for its many famous and prestigious cultural organisations and buildings and we are keen that we continue to encourage the arts here. "These plans will enhance this Grade II*-listed building, and improve an already successful and internationally renowned gallery making it even better for people who want to visit it."

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