PLANS to turn a green belt site in the New Forest into a huge quarry were defended at a public inquiry yesterday.

New Milton Sand and Ballast hit back at critics of its proposal to extract more than 800,000 tonnes of gravel at Downton Manor Farm, Milford-on-Sea.

Objectors attending the inquiry, at Lyndhurst Park Hotel, said the scheme would turn part of the green belt into an industrial area.

They claimed the quarrying would have an adverse impact on Shorefield Country Park which attracts thousands of holidaymakers and plays a vital role in the tourist industry.

Robert Fookes, QC, representing the applicant, defended the proposal.

Mr Fookes said green belt areas aimed to restrict the growth of urban areas, prevent neighbouring towns from merging and safeguard the countryside.

Sprawl' He added: "The proposals for Downton Manor Farm are consistent with those purposes. The site would remain as a check on the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas.

"The use of the site would not be apparent from any settlement and there would be no encroachment on countryside."

Mr Fookes described the gravel extraction scheme as "modest" and said it would not result in the construction of a processing plant.

He added: "The site is relatively secluded visually and will remain so both during working and after restoration. Its open nature will be retained."

However, Bob Bishop, vice-chairman of Milford Parish Council, said the scheme was not needed.

He added: "It's difficult to think of a worse site. It's a green belt farm adjoining a coastal village and a holiday park where people go for peace and quiet."

The inquiry, expected to last several days, is being chaired by government-appointed planning inspector Alan Boyland.

Objectors attending the opening day of the hearing included Jim Sey, chairman of Downton and Milford Against Gravel Extraction (DAMAGE).

He said the number of gravel lorries using roads in the area would increase by almost 100 per cent if the scheme were approved.

"The impact on the green belt would be irreversible, as would the impact on the local economy and the quality of life for thousands of residents," added Mr Sey.