CAMPAIGNERS said they were optimistic after meeting a government minister to discuss the future of a threatened military base.

Defence chiefs said that it was not certain that the site could close and be sold off.

And they vowed to visit Marchwood before finally deciding its fate.

The Ministry of Defence has earmarked the Marchwood site as part of its cost-cutting strategic review.

It employs more than 750 soldiers and civilians.

It is home to the 17 Port and Maritime Regiment which earlier this year led Totton carnival as part of a homecoming parade to mark their return from serving in Afghanistan.

The 300-acre facility has been a vital part of Marchwood’s economy since it was built during the Second World War.

But yesterday a cross-party delegation of councillors joined New Forest East MP Julian Lewis at Westminster to press their case to Defence Minister Peter Luff.

Mr Luff told them no final decision had been made on what to do with the site.

He pointed out that three options were on the table: Retaining the status quo, selling the site but keeping an MoD presence, and vacating Marchwood altogether.

He also promised to visit Marchwood before making a decision.

Campaigners included parish councillors Ron Vango Fisher and Fred White, district councillor Alison Hoare and Hampshire County councillor David Harrison.

They are concerned about an increase in HGVs using the site if it is sold.

And they fear a sale would pave the way for a bid to create a massive container port similar to the one proposed and eventually turned down at nearby Dibden Bay.

Councillor Harrison said: “It was reassuring to the extent that no decision had been made and he was prepared to listen to us.”