SOUTHAMPTON'S port bosses have hit back at suggestions that they only want to build a new container terminal at Dibden Bay so they can sell off their existing one.

Objectors to the scheme have accused port operator Associated British Ports (ABP) of planning to bring an end to the Southampton Container Terminal's operations in the Western Docks.

That, say the project's opponents, would open the door for them to cash in a similar way to the sale of land in the Eastern Docks and Town Quay area, which are now used for non-cargo-related purposes.

But at the public inquiry in Southampton's Eastern Docks port director Andrew Kent said: "Dibden Terminal is intended to provide additional container capacity for the Port of Southampton and ABP has no intention of attempting to close the Southampton Container Terminal for container operations."

He had earlier told inquiry inspector Michael Hurley that ABP was a minor shareholder in the SCT operation, with P&O holding 51 per cent. He added: "We are therefore not in a position to direct a move of SCT's activities to the Dibden Terminal. SCT has contractual rights to use the terminal for more than 20 years."

In emphasising the need, he said the existing port land was fully utilised to the point where more was needed. He added: "To continue to provide the levels and quality of service, the port must provide suitable depth of water, berth access, quay length, land area and transport connections."

The port, he said, had seen a massive growth of its activities, particularly with big rises in its container trade and with its roll-on roll-off vehicle activities, as well as being involved in bulk products and fresh produce

Under cross-examination on the question of fresh food imports from Richard Drabble, QC, who is representing Hampshire County Council and New Forest District Council, he did concede that the docks had lost a long-running contract with Geest. But he stressed that that was only one of a number of fresh produce importing activities and he said: "There are many other fresh products that require different facilities."