The centre could be completed by 2008

The government's Planning Inspectorate will look at the �500m, 15-hectare expansion of Broadmead, which is contingent on securing more land.

The council says it hopes "satisfactory agreement can be reached."

It added that negotiations between developers the Bristol Alliance, and landowners are continuing.

The hearing is expected to last until 9 July.

An expanded Broadmead - due for completion by 2008 - will include a new Marks & Spencer, houses and a new car park.

Planning permission for the redevelopment - which will pave the way for a revamping of the original shopping centre - was granted by the city council in December.