LEGAL top brass behind the plans for a new dock at Dibden Bay will continue their behind-the-scenes battles next week.

There were further discussions yesterday over the complex conditions which objectors want imposed on Southampton docks operator Associated British Ports if the plan goes ahead.

Although making their calls at the public inquiry for government inspector Michael Hurley to reject plans for a container terminal on Southampton Water between Hythe and Marchwood, they were continuing their fight for tight conditions to be put on the development.

The discussions were adjourned at the public inquiry into the scheme in Southampton yesterday morning, and are set to continue behind the scenes early next week.

The public inquiry itself will resume on Wednesday afternoon and the crucial final phase will get under way on Thursday, with the project's main opponents making the closing statements.

First at the witness desk will be Mel Kendal, the Hampshire County Councillor whose Lyndhurst division includes Marchwood, which would be heavily affected by the new terminal.

After this and other objections will come the summing-up from Southampton City Council, which is supporting the scheme, and APB, which is promoting it, before Mr Hurley makes his closing announcements.

It is all due to end on Friday, December 13.