The new look station is to provide a "gateway to the Culture Capital"

Shops at the front of the station will be demolished to show off the listed Victorian station entrance, and the Concourse Tower is to be replaced.

English Partnerships, who are funding the project, said the station will give the city a "welcome it deserves".

Liverpool Council said the design of the station will be in keeping with the World Heritage Site status.

"It is vitally important that in the run-up to 2008, when more and more visitors are coming to Liverpool, that Lime Street presents a first-class welcome to the city," Cllr Mike Storey said.

Eliot Lewis-Ward, of English Partnerships, said the station gives visitors their first impression of the city.

"With this magnificent setting we have the opportunity to create a new landmark for Liverpool that is as distinctive as the city's waterfront," he said.

The scheme is expected to start on site in early 2006 and be completed by the end of 2007.

The plans are on display at Liverpool Empire Theatre, Lime Street, Liverpool, from 1 to 7 October.