Work on the Church Street site will start this month and is scheduled for completion in early 2013.

Graham Lumberg, Director, McLaren Construction, said: “This is a particularly significant instruction for us, providing us with the opportunity to demonstrate our knowledge and expertise in the delivery of a high-profile, high specification project in the centre of one of the UK’s leading cities.

“The project is logistically challenging, involving the construction of a building in the middle of one of Liverpool’s busiest high streets.

“Working in this exceptionally busy environment will require a robust project management plan coordinating our activities with those of the city centre management team and our neighbours.

“Our experience and track record of working on this type of retail project has given us the skill sets to ensure the smooth delivery of this exciting scheme.”

The steel frame building will span five floors, comprising two basement levels, three upper level retail levels and a fourth floor plant room.

DLG Architects have designed a high-specified façade which will combine structural glazing, stone render and stone and copper cladding.  The building will also feature a striking entrance, creating an impressive internal atrium.