CIVIC chiefs are backing plans to install gas tanks at a proposed new crematorium in the New Forest.

New Forest District Council has already approved plans for a single-chapel development on greenbelt land off Stem Lane and Great Woar Copse in New Milton.

Now the Westerleigh Group wants permission to install a storage compound on the site, including five gas tanks.

Members of New Milton Town Council supported the proposal but voiced concerns about how often gas tankers would use Stem Lane.

The district council is due to decide the application by June 4.

Several people lodged objections to the crematorium proposal, saying it would produce pollution and generate too much traffic as well as resulting in the loss of greenbelt land.

But supporters of the scheme said it would prevent grieving relatives having to travel to facilities in Bournemouth and Southampton.