ASSOCIATED British Ports' landscaping consultant Martin Kelly yesterday conceded there would be a "substantial and adverse" visual impact for people living near the proposed Dibden Terminal.

Mr Kelly had suggested in his earlier evidence that the bay wasn't particularly special to look at and he disputed suggestions that the port and all its cranes would do considerable damage.

But at the continuing public inquiry, Hythe Marina Village barrister Tom Hill outlined the present setting of the green pasture land fronting the Bay, a view which was enjoyed by marina residents and users.

He asked: "Do you accept that the visual impact of this site as a major container terminal would be substantial and adverse?"

Mr Kelly replied: "This particular view would not exist. I think that is acknowledged."

Mr Hill also continued that if a port was developed, the huge ships which at present pass the marina 500 metres away would suddenly be 400 metres nearer.

"Yes," Mr Kelly said, "there would be a greater appearance of vessels."

But he also pointed out that on his frequent visits to Hythe Marina Village he had often seen people looking at ships and taking photographs of them.

But when he said they would become "potentially slightly closer," Mr Hill hit back: "Potentially slightly closer? It would be 100 metres."

Mr Hill had earlier contended that the terminal would dominate its surroundings which is on the edge of the New Forest Heritage area.

But Mr Kelly said that while there might be impact in the waterfront areas, it would be minimised in the Forest by existing woodlands, the planting of new trees and the general landscaping package.