LARGER ferries in Lymington Harbour will cause increased erosion, endanger sailors and put the town's economy at risk, says a report prepared by a watchdog river users' group.

Wightlink wants to replace the C-Class ferries on the Lymington to Yarmouth Solent crossing with a pair of triple-decked R-Class craft with a capacity increased from 130 tonnes to 360 tonnes and costing £9 million each.

The two ferries, which are half built, will have 2,360 horse power engines, an increase of 195 per cent, and instead of displacing 850 tonnes, will displace 1,495 tonnes. They are four metres longer and almost a metre wider and one deck higher.

The influential Lymington River Association has joined the growing band of organisations opposing the introduction of the new vessels.

In its report, the association calls for the government to commission a full assessment of the potential impact of the vessels.

It also says: "We seek support from the Royal Yachting Association, Natural England, Solent Protection Society, New Forest District Council and South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) who have a duty... to secure the safety of all river users and to protect the environment respectively."

The report also calls for a "vigorous pre-assessment" before Lymington Harbour Commissioners give the craft the go-ahead.

It also claims the shape of hull of the new craft will churn up mud which will be washed out to sea and cause erosion of the marshes.

Lymington has a good track record in producing Olympic and world-class sailors, it says.

"There is the potential for young people's sailing to be severely hampered by considerably larger commercial vessels operating in their training area."

And it points out: "There are estimates that the leisure marine business in Lymington is worth £100 million a year.

"Any possible threat to its biggest industry should require significant consultation with the town council and SEEDA."

Both the Royal Lymington Yacht Club and Lymington Town Sailing Club are opposing the new ferries.

Wightlink denies there will be any danger to sailors and says "safety will continue to be paramount".

The company also denies there will be any impact on the town's marine industry and says the more efficient hull form will produce reduced wash.

Lymington Harbour Commissioners have no powers to ban the craft but are taking independent expert advice as part of a risk assessment programme.