This is how Brighton's new central library could look.

A consortium has been chosen to design and build the library amid a multi-million pound city centre development.

The £45 million scheme includes 70 homes, bars, restaurants, workshops, stores, a pharmacy, GPs and a metro-style store.

There will be a 50-bed four-star hotel opposite the library on the far side of a new civic square.

Brighton and Hove Council last night made the choice after months of detailed scrutiny of three bids.

Senior Labour councillor Jackie Lythell is suggesting it should be called the City Library.

Earlier in the year, the council consulted amenity groups and residents about the project which includes renovating the long-derelict Jubilee Street site.

The chosen developers are Norwich Union Public Private Partnership, which was formed specially to undertake schemes under the Government's private finance initiative.

Two other consortia, Jubilee Partners and the Rotch Group, originally made bids. In July, the council narrowed down the choice to Norwich Union and Jubilee.

More than 700 people made comments after an exhibition to display the three designs was held in the summer.

The twice-delayed decision means the way is clear for a new library to open in the spring of 2003. First there will be more consultation with local groups before a planning application is submitted in February followed by a public exhibition. If it is approved, a start will be made on site in the spring.

Coun Lythell, lead libraries councillor, said: "This was a very difficult decision to make as we were lucky enough to consider three strong proposals. We are delighted to move on to the next stage with Norwich Union PPP."

Norwich Union PPP director Jeremy Tilford said: "The winning design will transform this key area of central Brighton from a disused run-down space into a mixed-use urban renaissance from which the whole community, including the business community, will benefit."

The library building in contemporary style has been designed by Bennetts Associates in collaboration with local architects Lomax, Cassidy and Edwards.

It will feature a dramatic use of glass, use half the energy of comparable buildings and contain a bookshop, cafe and visitor information centre.

The new city square will provide an outdoor venue throughout the year but especially during the Brighton Festival in May.

Jubilee Street and Regency Street will both be reinstated and revitalised as part of the scheme.

Mr Tilford said the plans would extend the cultural quarter of Brighton into the North Laine area.