"GOOD idea, terrible delivery!" That's the damning verdict on the decision by the government today to make the New Forest a National Park.

No one was surprised that Whitehall finally decided to go ahead with the plans.

But what has left organisations across the Forest stunned is the shock decision to leave out important areas such as Dibden Bay.

Other areas left out include Lymington, Ringwood and land north of Totton.

Many campaigners who fought proposals by Associated British Ports to transform Dibden Bay into a port were hoping the land would be protected forever if it became National Park.

Now the future of the land, home to several species of internationally important birds, has been thrown into uncertainty.

Peter Frost, amenities Verderer for the Court of Verderers, said: "That's very disappointing, considering that Dibden Bay fitted the criteria.

"This shows the government is caving in. I was surprised when they turned down the plans to develop Dibden Bay as a port because I thought they would fudge it.

"The conservationists will be up in arms about this."

But Mr Frost was much less concerned about the power of the Verderers.

He said: "Our position is still as it was before - on Crown Lands the Verderers still have great power in stopping development.

"I've always believed as long as the New Forest Acts remain as they are the Verderers can work within them."

Brian Dash, Hampshire County councillor for Dibden and Hythe, said: "I'm extremely disappointed that Dibden Bay has been left out.

"I think we will try and appeal. I would need time to consider it but yes, I think Dibden Bay must be inside the boundary.

"If they don't want to keep a area of special scientific interest and internationally important site for birds in the forest then what exactly is a forest?"