THE Army now looks set to avoid giving evidence in public against plans for a new port development at Dibden Bay.

When the public inquiry opened last year into Associated British Plans for a new container terminal next door to Marchwood Military Port, the scheme came under a stinging attack from the Army.

The opening shots fired by Defence Estates' counsel Richard Smith included warnings over additional pressure on Europe's biggest military port from trains on its rail link, noise from those trains for its personnel, extra navigational use of its waterfront and possible hazards for soldiers training in boats.

But with the public inquiry reaching its final stages - closing statements begin on November 26 and it is due to end in mid-December - there was an indication yesterday that the Army may not be airing any of its objections in public.

Referring to discussions which were taking place behind the scenes between the Army and port operator ABP, Mr Smith told the inquiry yesterday: "We are trying to reach accommodation and if we can avoid bringing evidence before you we will. But if we have to, we will bring it before you."

Inquiry inspector Michael Hurley pointed out that Defence Estates' written evidence had been placed with the inquiry and added: "I don't want to get to a position where, very late in the inquiry, we are hearing evidence and there is the prospect of the inquiry being extended."

ABP counsel Martin Kingston also stressed the need for cross-examination if evidence was put and added: "There were a number of instances where the MoD could have brought their evidence."

The inquiry had earlier been told that agreements had been reached with Hythe Marina interests over plans for a huge mound to screen much of the terminal from its residents.

But on behalf of Hythe Marina Village, chartered surveyor John Trustram-Eve renewed calls for an extension of that mound seaward of its existing waterfront in order to add to that screening.

It would, he said, increase the protection of the marina from both noise and night time lighting.

The inquiry is now in recess until Monday, November 18.