The scheme is a partnership between the BBC, Philips, Manchester City Council and the Triangle shopping centre.

Over the next 12 months, the screen and sound system, which is from Philips' Vidiwall range, will be used to display a variety of televised events including news, sport, entertainment and art and community projects. It has already been in action for the FA Cup final and the Eurovision Song Contest.

The screen will be operated will be operated by the BBC from its Manchester base and will have its own schedule, featuring live events, locally produced films and a continuous feed of local information.

Pat Loughrey, BBC director of nations and regions, said: "This is a highly significant experiment. It offers a new way to deliver high quality programming and major events to our audiences and at the same time provide an innovative new facility for Manchester."