The debate over a port expansion reached boiling point as protesters were out in force at an inquiry.

Several opponents to a proposed container terminal at Bathside Bay spoke yesterday at an evening session of the public inquiry into the project.

The inquiry has been going on for several months and is due to close later this month.

Government inspectors will then make their decision on whether to approve the plan, by Hutchison Ports UK, to build the £300 million terminal close to Harwich International Port.

The inspectors heard lively submissions from opposition groups Starboard and Rape (Residents Against Port Expansion). At one point, John Tipple, a representative of Rape, was told to calm down by Mr Smith as he made his animated address.

Mr Tipple said: "It's a quart in a pint pot and it won't fit. The opposition is growing in this town as people realise we're being strangled."

The inquiry continues today.

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Published Thursday, September 2, 2004

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