CONTROVERSIAL plans to berth a nuclear submarine at Southampton are likely to be approved by the city Cabinet next Monday.

The Daily Echo understands that the beefed-up safety proposals - dubbed SotonSafe - are likely to be given the green light by the newly-elected Liberal Democrat administration - despite deep reservations held by senior Cabinet members.

One senior Cabinet member, who did not wish to be named, said: "I have a feeling we will be minded to support it, with the enhancing and strengthening of the plan. We have to make a decision. It is as simple as that."

Another senior Cabinet member added the council could not be seen to be breaking the law by not approving the plans - despite the reservations held by Cabinet members about allowing nuclear vessels into the city.

The Cabinet member said: "We are looking for the best solution which will protect the people of Southamp-ton as best we can within the law."

The long-running saga began when the Royal Navy announced proposals to use Dock 38 to house a nuclear

vessel.

City chiefs are supposed to agree a controversial safety scheme by July 21 this year. If they fail to do so, they could face legal action from the Health and Safety Executive costing at least £100,000 in the High Court.

The original scheme was put on hold last year when councillors had so little confidence in the Royal Navy's original plans that they told the service to stay away until new safety procedures were drawn up.

The latest safety scheme has been drawn-up with the help of Associated British Ports and emergency services.

It is supposed to swing into action in the event of a nuclear incident and includes distributing potassium iodate tablets to vulnerable people in the event of a nuclear leak.

The city Cabinet met two weeks ago to invite final consultation from groups before it made a decision.