A Councillor has taken aim at the Environment Agency's 'secrecy' for spending £5 million on "farmland" near the New Forest.

The purchase of land in Keyhaven, Lymington, has drawn objections from local organisations and residents, including Councillor David Harrison.

The ward member for Totton South and Marchwood expressed surprise over the deal, noting concerns about its implications for local activities and its justification as a use of public money.

READ MORE: Environment Agency buys Keyhaven land to beat climate change

Cllr Harrison said: "I know that negotiations around land purchases are often done cloaked in secrecy, for commercial reasons. However, that has the negative effect of surprising neighbours when they find out.

"Unlike planning decisions, there is no requirement to inform them."

He emphasised the importance of managing the coastline, which includes protecting homes and businesses and supporting nature, but warned that decisions in one area can have consequences elsewhere.

Cllr Harrison also questioned the agency's accountability, noting that its staff are not elected by the public.