CAMPAIGNERS are fighting plans to build a multi-million-pound crematorium on green belt land in Hampshire.

Civic chiefs have received more than 90 letters of objection from people angry at proposals to redevelop a wildlife haven near homes in the New Forest.

Protesters say the proposed development will create extra traffic problems as well as producing potentially harmful emissions.

As reported by the Daily Echo the crematorium, expected to cost at least £2 million, would be built on grazing land off Stem Lane, on the edge of New Milton.

The scheme aims to prevent mourners having to travel to existing facilities in Southampton and Bournemouth.

Karen McAllen, of The Hyde, New Milton, is among those who have written to New Forest District Council to oppose the application.

She said: “The use of green belt land for this non-essential proposal is inappropriate.

“The increased air pollution from increased traffic, and from the crematorium itself, is likely to result in a danger to health.”

Hayley Thacker, of Thoresby Court, New Milton, added: “As someone who has lived here all my life I cannot imagine that having a crematorium at the end of my neighbourhood will have a positive effect.

“Only pollution and upset will come from this.”

She added: “It’s a nice meadow which is a habitat for a lot of local wildlife.

“It’s really disturbing that anyone would even consider disturbing such a beautiful place.”

Other objectors say the proposed development will make surrounding roads “even more dangerous”.

But the application is supported by New Milton Residents’ Association, which says only a small minority dispute the need for a crematorium.

Citing a residents’ association meeting, the letter says: “The vast majority of our members were in favour of the proposals, but there were some who had reservations about traffic levels and the possible issue of harmful emissions.

“The committee was minded to err on the side of expert advice which suggests there are no harmful effects from having such a facility in a residential area.”

Speaking in May, the applicant, Jeremy Hinton, said the project had received an “overwhelmingly positive” response at a drop-in session attended by more than 80 residents.

He said traffic volumes would be “much lower” than perceived, with vehicle movements taking place outside peak periods.

Supporters include Nigel King, of Lymington Road, New Milton, who said Stem Lane was a suitable site for the “much-needed” facility.