Plans for a prestigious international peace centre in the heart of the city took a major step forward today.

Bradford Council has begun advertising nationally for developers who could build the centre on the site of the former Alexandra Hotel.

A new partnership set up to drive it forward believes it will be a major plank in Bradford's bid to become European Capital of Culture.

The move towards the multi-million pound dream follows a feasibility study by consultant Richard Gerald Associates into proposals.

It identified a demand for a commercial scheme which could include a hotel and conference centre and leisure scheme centred around a Peace Museum and education facilities.

The development would be the first of its type in Britain.

The study was commissioned by the International Peace Centre Company - a new partnership between Bradford Council, the University and the Peace Museum Company.

The existing Peace Museum is based in small premises at Piece Hall Yard in the city centre.

The museum works closely with the University's peace studies department and a range of peace organisations across the country.

The Alexandra Hotel site has a history of failed dreams and was originally part of the grandiose £200 million West End scheme for leisure, shopping and hotels. Only the £10 million Aldermanbury office block survived and was completed two years ago.

Councillor Simon Cooke, the Council's executive member for the economy and chairman of the International Peace Centre Company, said: "I am delighted to see that this exciting development is progressing.

"The combination of a prestigious international centre dedicated to peace and conflict resolution and high quality facilities including hotel and conference accommodation would be a major boost for Bradford.

"The facility would add an important dimension to the continued growth of the West End cultural quarter and enhance Bradford's bid for European Capital of Culture status.

"I am confident that this marketing drive will attract strong interest from developers and investors."

Ron Barden, director of the Peace Museum Company, said the project had the support of leading figures representing the arts, religious and peace organisations.

Professor Tom Woodhouse, from the department of peace studies at Bradford University, said his department enjoyed an international reputation as a centre for education and research.

"We can look forward to a wonderful new facility. I am delighted that such a big step forward has been taken."