The government has given the go-ahead to the £500m regeneration of the Broadmead shopping centre in Bristol city centre despite local opposition, writes Roya Nikkhah.
A project insider said the scheme was given the green light last week and would not be called in for a public inquiry by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.

The Bristol Alliance, a joint venture between developers Land Securities and Hammerson, and Henderson Global Investors and Morley Fund Management – submitted plans to the ODPM late last month.

The scheme has been opposed by some residents who are concerned about plans to convert the area around the historic Quakers Friars buildings into a pedestrian-friendly square. These buildings, a scheduled ancient monument, are expected to be the focal point of the scheme.

Richard Lee, of architect Alec French Partnership, who will work on the Quakers Friars buildings, said: "We will respect the importance of the archaeology at this historic site while developing Quakers Friars into a bustling, vibrant space."

Chapman Taylor is lead architect on the development, which includes a department store, smaller shops and a car park.

Client Bristol Alliance refused to comment on the planning decision but it is understood that architects for the east side of the scheme will be appointed later this month.

Hammerson and Land Securities were shortlisted for the scheme in July 2000. Construction is set to begin next year and the centre is due to open in 2007. Contractors have not yet been appointed.

The proposal includes 11,000 m2 of retail and leisure developments, 218 flats and parking for 148 cars.