AN air quality expert says there is no reason for objectors to kick up a stink over possible dust pollution.

Dr Duncan Laxen has been studying the possible impact of the planned development on behalf of Associated British Ports since 1997.

Thirteen major objectors to ABP's scheme for Dibden Bay have made the danger to air quality one of their main bones of contention.

But Dr Laxen - 30 years an environmental scientist - said he could find "no air quality grounds" for blocking the £750m development.

Hythe and Dibden Parish Council have expressed concerns about "unacceptable levels of dust and smell" during the development of the port .

Hythe Marina Association had warned that the creek proposed as part of the development would "result in odour" and they also feared the effects of dust.

The environment Agency was worried about additional sulphur dioxide emissions from shipping.

The Council for National Parks said that increased vehicle pollution as a result of traffic to and from the terminal would endanger rare lichens in Heritage Area woodlands.

But in his report, Dr Laxen said: "Dust soiling would be insignificant, and the odour risk from the Creek would be very slight at Hythe Marina.

"There may be some temporary dust impacts of minor significance during construction, but only close to the terminal itself."

He added that additional traffic caused by the port would not be expected to create unacceptable air quality for residents living close to affected roads.

"A detailed air quality assessment has been carried out.

"It shows existing air quality is generally good, and will improve due to tighter emissions standards," said Dr Laxen.

The inquiry is now in recess to give inspector Michael Hurley and his deputy Andrew Phillipson a chance to catch up on paperwork.

Topic 11 beginning on July 16 will be Landscape and Visual Impact.