A "wall of light" will face Millennium Square

Designs for flats, hotels, bars and a casino will see the transformation of a previously derelict area into a "distinctive new waterfront quarter".

The detailed plan includes an artistic "wall of light" which will face Millennium Square.

It has been almost 40 years since industrial activity ended at the city centre site.

Developer Crest Nicholson says the plan will centre on the two Rotunda buildings, where new caf�s and residential accomodation will be built.

The council's Development Control Committe voted unanimously in favour of the development.

Project director Ian Cawley said: "We are absolutely delighted by the decision which is the culmination of many years hard work."