PORT bosses have come under fire after apparently launching the hunt for companies to improve transport links around the proposed £750m container port at Dibden Bay even though it has yet to be given the go-ahead.

Secretary of State for Transport Alistair Darling has still to give his verdict on the controversial scheme but an announcement is expected in the next few weeks.

But the trade magazine Rail reported in its latest issue that Associated British Ports (ABP) is already seeking companies to design and build road and rail infrastructure for the planned terminal.

A year-long public inquiry into the scheme came to a close last year and ABP said the site was vital to protect the city's long-term future as a premier port. Campaigners fear it would destroy wildlife habitats and lead to a huge increase in traffic on surrounding roads.

They said they were baffled by ABP apparently launching a bid for tenders to build transport links ahead of the government announcement.

Dibden and Hythe county councillor Brian Dash said: "It's amazing. Either ABP know something we don't or they are playing a game of bluff to influence the decision.

"It will prove costly to the tenderers if it is a bluff.

"With Shellhaven, Felixstowe and Bathside Bay as alternatives, how could any rational government give the go-ahead at Dibden?"

John Walker, from Residents Against Dibden Bay Port Action Group, said: "We had not heard anything about this and I cannot understand what it is all about."

During the inquiry, it was revealed the Waterside's busiest road would become a four-lane highway under the plans.

The proposals were drawn up to increase the capacity of the A326 to enable it to cope with extra traffic generated by the proposed port.

ABP were yesterday unavailable for comment.