PLANS for a multimillion-pound centre celebrating the New Forest are facing stiff opposition.

The fate of proposals to develop a former mill at New Park, Brockenhurst, will be determined tomorrow.

New Forest Show organisers want to build an interpretation centre providing information about the history and traditions of the Forest, plus offices and a new access road.

However the owners of New Park Manor hotel, along with other Forest groups, believe the £5m centre would destroy the peace of the tranquil setting.

The hotel cannot fully operate during the New Forest Show each summer, due to guests struggling to get in, and fears the interpretation centre would lead to further big events.

The Friends of Brockenhurst, Brockenhurst Parish Council and the New Forest Association have also objected.

Richard Cuzens, New Forest Show Society's chief executive, told the Daily Echo: "The plans have taken four years to come together with a lot of consultation and the recommendation is for approval. We feel this is a good guide that we have complied with planning legislation and put together a first class application.

"We have taken into account the views of all neighbours and, as much as possible, tried to amend the plans accordingly."