A public inquiry is now underway at the University of Central Lancashire, Preston, in order to decide whether to approve plans for the city's multi-million pound Tithebarn development.

The mixed-use scheme, which aims to transform Preston city centre, is poised to include a cinema, cafés and bars and has received support from the three main party leaders at Lancashire County Council. Preston City Council (PCC), which is working alongside developer Lend Lease on the development, was minded to award planning permission in July 2009 before the government ordered a public inquiry.

PCC leader Ken Hudson said: "Tithebarn has wide ranging support, from Lancashire County Council, the North West Development Agency and others. We look forward to making our case at the inquiry. "We hope the inquiry will rule in favour of Tithebarn so that Preston can fulfil its undoubted potential."

The public inquiry is due to last around six to seven weeks, with PCC expecting to hear the outcome around the end of the year when the government makes its final decision.