THE START of a public inquiry into the Dibden Bay scheme is still three days away - but the balloon has already gone up.

In fact three balloons were flown by objectors yesterday to highlight the size of the proposed container terminal at the centre of Hampshire's biggest environmental battle.

But Associated British Ports hit back at the protest.

A spokesman said: "The balloon nearest Hythe Marina Village was in completely the wrong location and far too close to the marina.

"This invalidates any data received."

The balloons flew at 370ft - the height of the cranes likely to be used at the terminal if the £500m scheme is approved.

Members of pressure group Residents Against Dibden Bay Port (RADBP) staged the display to show how the huge port will dominate the skyline.

For the first time residents in Waterside parishes were able to see just how tall the cranes serving the six-berth terminal will be.

RADBP spokesman Phil Henderson said: "Associated British Ports are proposing to install 20 quayside cranes - and each one will be 370ft high.

"They will be visible from as far afield as Lyndhurst and will spoil Forest views forever."

The red and white balloons were tethered to buoys 70 yards from shore to show how far the quay will extend into Southampton Water. They will be flown again today for the benefit of people who are at work during the week.

The public inquiry, which is likely to last at least a year, will start at Applemore Recreation Centre in Roman Road, Dibden, next Tuesday.

After four days it will transfer to the old Stena Line building in Southampton Docks.

Objectors have criticised the venue, saying the inquiry should be held on neutral ground near the villages likely to be affected by the massive dock development.

The hearing was due to be held at the Esso club in Holbury, but Esso withdrew its consent for the building to be used.