WOODLAND bosses are debating their next move after controversial plans to transform a New Forest beauty spot were rejected by just one vote.

Civic chiefs refused an application to “restore” Latchmore Brook by reinstating the natural meanders that existed before the New Forest stream was artificially straightened in the 19th century in a bid to improve drainage.

Forestry Commission officials said the £1.5 million scheme would ease erosion by reducing the speed of water flowing through the area.

But many of the 340 objectors complained that proposals to infill the existing brook with almost 100,000 tonnes of material would result in hundreds of extra lorry movements in the district.

They also claimed that the scheme would destroy current habitats.

As reported in the Daily Echo, members of the New Forest National Park Authority (NPA) rejected the application after a two-hour debate.

Campaigners are waiting to learn if the Forestry Commission will lodge an appeal or submit a revised scheme.

Deputy Surveyor Bruce Rothnie, the organisation’s most senior officer in the Forest, said staff were “very disappointed” that the NPA had rejected the application, which had been supported by key consultees such as Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and the New Forest Association.

He added: “We remain committed to delivering our wetland restoration schemes for the long term quality and protection of the forest and we will now take time to consider our next steps.”