Work on a futuristic library for Brighton will not now start until early in the New Year.

Planning permission was granted in July by Brighton and Hove City Council for the modern library at Jubilee Street.

It is part of a scheme for the long-derelict area, which also includes housing, shops, offices, restaurants and a hotel.

Work on the multi-million pound project was expected to start in October, with a completion date two years later.

But Jim Keeble, who runs Two Way Books in Church Street, said: "No work has started at all.

"They promised some time ago the library would be running in three years. That time is almost up, yet work has not even started.

"They should never have left the old building in Church Street. They are misleading the public."

A council spokesman said: "The planning permission had a list of conditions which planners have been working through.

"This is the redevelopment of the Jubilee Street area, with a web of leases and contracts to be sorted out.

"There's no delay as such - some things take a long time. We hope to be on site early in the New Year."