HEBDEN Bridge could be ruined by any more shops, apartments and cars.
Or it could lead to a Renaissance and boost local businesses, the inquiry into the multi-million pound Garden Street scheme was told.
Planning inspector Roger Brown said at the start of the three-day hearing that his decision would be based on whe
ther the proposals by Hebden Royd Developments LLP would have an adverse impact on the character of the town and whether there was a need for much more parking.
Frances Patterson QC, for the developers, said "Opposition has come from a limited but vocal section of the community.
"We believe what is proposed will fit in well, be a credit to the town and be part of its Renaissance."
But Michael Bedford QC, for Calderdale Council, said the scheme had been refused planning permission because of the adverse effect on the Conservation Area.
"This site is not suited to a dramatic statement or a design that consciously seeks to draw attention to itself - it will dominate its immediate surroudings and will impact markedly on longer views across the valley," he said.
Anthony Rae, for the Garden Street Action Group, said the existing car park was "substantially under-utilised" most of the time and the town was not in need of regeneration, unlike Todmorden and Sowerby Bridge.
"Hebden Bridge has to remain just a small market town - that is the essence of its attractiveness to residents and visitors."
As well as 24 houses and 24 flats, the scheme includes 16 new business premises and an underground car park, increasing the total number of spaces from about 55 to 112.
The hearing is proceding.
