PLANNERS have rejected proposals for a controversial new moto-cross track - but two huge events will still go ahead this summer.

Promoter Steve Dixon wanted permission for earthworks to create jumps on the track and a paddock area at Matterley Basin close to Cheesefoot Head near Winchester.

The plans were controversial as the site lies within the proposed South Downs National Park and objectors said the events would wreck the tranquillity of the countryside.

Councillors voted by ten to two to reject the scheme but Mr Dixon said the events would be held.

Landowners have permitted rights to host moto-cross events for up to 14 days a year, although if Mr Dixon undertakes the engineering works the council can take enforcement action, the planning committee heard.

Mr Dixon told the Daily Echo: "This is a hiccup but the events will go ahead and still be a spectacle and a success. I was very disappointed how our scheme was presented.

"We will be looking very carefully at the permitted development rights we do have here."

Mr Dixon said he was disappointed by the "Nimby attitude" of the councillors to two major sporting events.

The British Moto-cross Grand Prix will be held on June 17 and 18 before an expected attendance of 10,000. On September 23 and 24 some 20-35,000 people are expected for the Moto-cross of Nations.

He said: "It is the Olympics of moto-cross. Two hundred million people across the world will watch it on TV.

"It is a shame the planning committee has not got one person involved in sport. They are all old school," said Mr Dixon, 42, who runs a grand prix racing team based in Swanmore.

Mr Dixon and the company Bike It Promotions have the British Grand Prix rights until 2009.

He said he hoped that this year's event would prove they could run the event at Matterley Basin until 2009.

Earlier councillors had rejected their officers' recommendation to approve the proposals and thereby give the council some control.

Senior planning officer John Hearn said planning permission was vital. "It is highly unlikely they would be able to run a grand prix without the engineering works for ramps."