Redevelopment work is due to begin in 2005

The government has written to those who attended the original inquiry asking if they think it should be revisited.

The support of a major retailer is considered an important part of the �500m development proceeding.

Marks & Spencer had been interested in signing up to a flagship store but these plans are now under review.

A public inquiry into plans to compulsory purchase part of the city centre site was held in June and July.

Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott is considering whether to give these plans the go-ahead. If he gives the green light, development work can start.

A spokesman for the Government Office for the South West said the letters had been sent after Mr Prescott's office was alerted to doubts about Marks & Spencer's commitment to the scheme.

Interested parties had been asked to comment within 28 days on "the potential occupier of the flagship store and the need for the public inquiry to be reopened," he said.

The redevelopment scheme, which will include new homes and a car park, is due to begin in 2005.

A spokesman for the Bristol Alliance, the partnership behind the development, said: "We are very disappointed that a decision regarding the compulsory purchase order has not yet been reached."

A Marks & Spencer spokeswoman said no decision had been made on a new store in Broadmead.