A public inquiry into a multi-million pound development in Solihull which has divided opinion for several years is under way.

Solihull Council is defending its planning committee’s decision to twice throw-out the controversial Parkgate scheme in Shirley - a mixed use scheme of shops, an Asda superstore and residential properties.

Lawyers acting for the authority and the developers gave their opening statements at the start of the four day enquiry held at the Civic Suite in the town.

Planning chiefs had rejected the scheme on grounds of inadequate parking in December and February.

A Government Inspector must now decide whether to uphold or overturn the local authority’s decision.

Anthony Crean, QC representing Solihull Council, said: “The proposal before this inquiry is right in many respects but wrong in one important way; the parking arrangements are unsatisfactory.

“The council contend that if the parking arrangements are deficient then the experience of shopping at Shirley town centre will be frustrating and unsatisfactory. That experience will blossom into a reputation and the impact of that will be to deter visitors.”