Ambitious plans for four futuristic skyscrapers which will change the face of Hove's seafront have today been backed by city councillors.

The Karis/Ing consortium has been chosen as the preferred developer for the three-acre King Alfred site at Kingsway.

Today's decision at a special meeting in Hove Town Hall means the team behind the controversial scheme - dubbed the tin-can towers - can start to bring Guggenheim Museum architect Frank Gehry's other-worldly plan to reality.

But it will be several months before a formal planning application is submitted and at least six years before the buildings are complete.

Karis' managing director Josh Arghiros said: "We aim to build one of the most stunning and inspiring projects in the world. The announcement endorses our own views on the aspirations of this city, and provides us with the opportunity to make our combined vision a reality.

"We believe this decision marks a pivotal point in the history of our city and kickstarts the beginning of a renaissance that will launch Brighton and Hove into the 21st century with boldness, confidence and a real spring in its step."

The towers, the tallest reaching up 38-storeys, will include 450 homes - around 200 of which would have to be 'affordable' - as well as a viewing tower and restaurant.

They will surround a state-of-the-art sports complex.

Angel of the North sculptor Anthony Gormley has been commissioned to build a water feature as a centre-piece for the development.

Karis/ING came well ahead of the rival applications Barratt/Brunswick whose scheme for the site proposed sleeker, shorter blocks.

Voting was 9-6 in favour of having Karis/ING as the preferred developer.

A Tory move to refer the decision to a full council meeting in September was defeated by the same margin.

Council leader Ken Bodfish said: "This scheme will ensure the city is at the forefront of this and the next century.

"We will be as proud of it in 100 years' time as we are of the Royal Pavilion today."