PLANS for a major environmental scheme in the New Forest have been rejected after sparking hundreds of complaints.

More than 300 residents objected to the controversial scheme seeing the Friends of Latchmore launch a campaign against the proposed infilling of the brook at Ogdens near Fordingbridge, in 2012.

Ecologists, veterinary surgeons, biologists and the MP for New Forest West, Sir Desmond Swayne, called for an independent review claiming the project would damage the ecosystem and its wildlife.

The Forestry Commission has been refused consent to transform a seven-kilometre stretch of Latchmore Brook, which runs through three parishes in the district, from north of Fritham to Ibsley.

The Commission had sought permission to reverse the previous straightening of the river and restore its natural meanders.

But objectors complained that proposals to carry out major infilling of the existing brook would result in hundreds of lorry movements.

David Johnson of Bramshaw Parish Council said the only road in and out of Fritham would see 58 heavy goods vehicles a day.

Protesters said the scheme would also result in the destruction of existing habitats for fish and birds.

But Forestry Commission officials said the infilling would replace material that had been washed out of the Forest over many years. They also claimed that the project would create a more natural and robust landscape.

After listening to two hours of conflicting evidence the National Park Authority rejected the application by six votes to four.

Placard waving members of the Friends of Latchmore Brook group had staged a demonstration outside the building.

Asked if the Forestry Commission would lodge an appeal or submit a revised scheme a spokesman said it was too early to tell.