Campaigners fear Cleck-heaton could become a clone town if Asda get permission to build a town centre supermarket.

They believe the town

will be cut in half if a number of road closures essential to the development are approved.

Asda is asking for six roads to be shut, including a section of Northgate - although a decision is not expected for weeks following today's public inquiry.

Separate to the application for road closures is a full planning application for a supermarket lodged this week by Bradford-based developer Magellan, acting on behalf of Asda.

The planning application, which includes the demolition of houses and a building, is due to be heard in August.

However, without permission to close the roads permanently the scheme cannot go ahead.

Campaigners will be out in force today as the inquiry reopens at Cleckheaton Town Hall.

George Street resident Sandra Malcolm said Northgate was the main route into the town centre for many residents and the most direct.

"If part of Northgate is closed traffic will be pushed onto Bradford road causing chaos.

"The whole development could end with the town

losing its identity. If it kills the shops off that's Cleck-heaton gone. It's a traditional town with mostly independent stores and we want to keep it that way."

Another issue to anger residents is a footpath through the store car park.

Residents want the right of way - which cuts through the development site - preserved. One possibility is through a legal agreement.

This matter is the focus of today's resumed inquiry.

Asda has long wanted

to build a Cleckheaton store, having previously been turned down at Bridon Wire.

At the public inquiry Magellan's solicitor Richard Sagar confirmed that without the road closures there would be no store.

The 5,500 square metre store would only sell clothes and electrical goods with restrictions in place to protect traders. But the level of restrictions and the opening hours have not yet been confirmed.

Asda property communications manager Claire Irvine said: "We hope that this second application to build an Asda store in Cleckheaton shows our commitment to the town - not only in offering a wide range of products at everyday low prices but also lasting investment and employment for local people."

Rival supermarket Tesco is objecting to the road

closures. The chain's plans for a supermarket on the edge of town, near St Peg Lane, were also turned down in 2001.