Called Revolution MOSI, the eco-friendly building would be built using the same translucent plastic used in the domes of the Eden Project in Cornwall.

The new transparent structure plans to cover the two main warehouses - which are currently the reception building and the 'Power Hall' - and the museum's railway station.

Solar-power cells on the roof would supply electricity to the museum while funnels would collect and recycle rainwater to flush lavatories.

The development would also create a large reception area, a conference centre which could seat 750 diners, and four major new galleries between the two warehouses where some of the museum's most important artifacts - such as the world's first computer - would be placed on permanent display.

Redevelopment work will begin in 2009.