A LEADING QC has made a 240-page assault on plans to build a huge container terminal on environmentally sensitive land at Dibden Bay.

Richard Drabble represents Hampshire County Council and New Forest District Council, two of the main objectors to proposals submitted by Associated British Ports (ABP).

Mr Drabble attacked almost every aspect of the proposed development during his closing speech to the public inquiry, which ends on Friday.

He said the £750m port would have a "disastrous" impact on the area - including a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Much of his speech centred on whether the terminal was needed and the impact it would have on a semi-rural stretch of coastline.

Mr Drabble said giant cranes on the quayside would be visible from key viewpoints in the New Forest if the controversial scheme was approved.

He added that the sixth-berth terminal would devour 30 per cent of the strategic gap between Marchwood and Hythe.

Mr Drabble criticised Southampton City Council over its decision to back the plans submitted by ABP.

He said: "Throughout the inquiry the council has supported the scheme and in so doing has at times failed to identify obvious shortcomings and inadequacies in proposals which will have significant impacts on local communities."

Summing up, Mr Drabble said: "ABP have failed to demonstrate that the need for the development outweighs its impact on areas of importance to nature conservation, the New Forest and local communities.

"The only realistic case that could justify release of the site would have to be based on the national need for container handling facilities.

"Given the existence of alternative projects in London and Harwich, such a case cannot now be made."

Proceeding