Trams would loop around the city centre and go to Kirkby

The four-week long consultation will hear from both supporters and objectors to the plan.

The �225m line would loop around the city centre and stretch out to Kirkby, with a total length of 12 miles.

Representatives of more than 270 people, who have listed objections to the scheme, will give evidence.

Merseytravel, the authority behind the scheme, wants it to be ready by 2007.

Supporters of the scheme include the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce, Liverpool Land Development Company and the Royal Liverpool Hospital.

Inspector Chris Tipping will give his recommendation to the Government at the end of the inquiry.