The inquiry will look into the developer Thornfield's plans for a ground-up redevelopment of the site which will involve the demolition of the existing Victorian Market building and the creation of a new 45 metre tall building, designed by Kohn Pederson Fox.

Conservationist groups, led by English Heritage, will oppose the scheme.

Terry Farrell is among witnesses who will attack KPF's scheme, and argue that it would create a 'canyon' in the heart of the Smithfield Conservation Area.

The inquiry is due to run until January 2008.