PLANS to relocate Worcester's Christopher Whitehead High School will soon reach a head as a public inquiry is launched into its possible move.

A Government inspector is due to begin a two-week investigation today into the feasibility of transferring the school from Bromwich Road to Rushwick, on the western edge of the city.

Worcestershire County Council is backing the blueprints for a state-of-the-art school on land belonging to Earl's Court Farm, and has agreed to push the project forward by issuing compulsory purchase orders at the site if necessary.

The £15m project would be funded by Tesco, which wants to build a store at the school's current site in St John's, along with a petrol station and housing.

It makes this inquiry a crucial element of its bid.

But Worcester City Council, which favours an alternative proposal from Sainsbury's - which would see the school remain in Bromwich Road - blocked the plans last year because of the potential impact on traffic, local traders and Christopher Whitehead pupils.

Sainsbury's has received permission for a 26,000 sq ft superstore in Swanpool Walk, next to the school.

The relocation plans will be reviewed during this inquiry, and Iain Paul, the county council's design and estates manager, said it was the best way forward.

"By asking for any judgement to be the outcome of a public inquiry, we have ensured everyone sees it as fair and impartial and therefore something everyone can accept," he said.

Malvern Hills District Council, in which district the proposed site lies, and Worcester City Council will address the inspector along with campaigners against the move, including Community Has Rights In School Site (CHRISS).

City council planning manager, Peter Yates, said he would be speaking in favour of the Sainsbury's bid.

"I will be putting forward why we think the school should remain at its existing site, it has always been our preferred option," he said.

The inquiry will be looking at a range of considerations including the scheme's impact on education, traffic, and landscaping at the site.

The inquiry's findings are not likely to be recommended to the Deputy Prime Minister's office until mid-July.