The region's biggest reef operator is so confident in the future of Port Douglas tourism it is constructing a purpose-built dive centre, retail outlet and new office space to meet growing demand.

Construction of Quicksilver's new Learn to Dive centre is expected to start in May on the corner of Grant and Warner St.

The Learn to Dive centre will be a two-storey building with a 13m x 7m dive pool covered by a retractable roof to allow all-weather operations, plus classrooms, a dive specialty retail outlet and offices.

It will be the first of its kind in Port Douglas, with the development to include car parking spaces, road upgrades and pedestrian walkways.

Quicksilver managing director Tony Baker said the development would create new jobs in addition to the 245 people the company already employs in the Port Douglas region.

"We believe the Dive school will complement the services Quicksilver currently provides and bring another dimension for travellers who are considering a stay in Port Douglas," Mr Baker said.

"With a four day dive course we hope to attract a new market who will be spending up to a week in local accommodations and participate in other evening activities."