DEVELOPERS have offered a first tantalising glimpse inside one of Liverpool’s most controversial developments.

The Daily Post was granted exclusive access to Mann Island’s winter garden yesterday, which is set to house dozens of public exhibitions when work is completed. The £135m scheme will also be home to half a dozen top restaurants, with negotiations ongoing with major chains.

Steve Parry, managing director of Neptune, the developer behind the project, said he hoped Mann Island would become a “vibrant hub” for the city.

He added: “The winter garden will be open for people to host all kinds of exhibitions, as long as they are of no cost to the management.

“We have already seen interest expressed by Liverpool Boat Show, which wants to set up some of its exhibits at Mann Island next year.”

The striking glass and black granite complex, which also houses two apartment blocks and an extension to the Liverpool canal link, has been at the centre of heated debate in the past.

It was criticised by Will Alsop, the architect behind the failed Fourth Grace scheme, and some city leaders for spoiling waterfront views.

But Mr Parry said Liverpool was in need of some new architecture.

He added: “The building is almost unique – the only other one in the world similar to it is in Copenhagen.

“The buildings are angled to provide glimpse views, and the south-facing outdoor area next to the winter garden will provide people with space to sit outside in the sun on the waterfront until 9pm.”