The project to regenerate Garden Street, Hebden Bridge, with shops, offices, apartments and a 136-space car park has angered residents.

With the closing date for objections looming, protesters stepped up their campaign by petitioning in the centre of town.

Hannah Nadim, a member of Calder Civic Trust, who opposes the new scheme, said: "This is a big development and is going to shut Hebden down.

"We need people to stand up, be aware of what is going on and give their opinion.

"We're not going to be put off by the weather."

So far, more than 650 names have been added to the petition against the biggest development in Hebden Bridge in 50 years.

Russell Dean, who lives near the proposed site, said: "Quite simply, the town can't survive it.

"This is a bad idea and it should be stopped."

The developers, Studio Baad, describe Garden Street as a hole in the heart of Hebden Bridge – "An underused, bleak and windswept expanse of Tarmac with no landscaping or other redeeming features, seriously detracting from the quality of the conservation area.

"Our aim is to create an attractive pedestrian thoroughfare, a place of quality and life with vitality and diversity for residents and visitors, as required in Calderdale Council's masterplan."

The closing date for objections to be sent to Calderdale Council is February 15.