BUILDING a Park and Ride in Clifton for a new tram route would have little effect on wild birds, an inquiry has been told.

Residents, bird enthusiasts and Notts Wildlife Trust are all concerned about the impact of the Net Phase Two scheme on species like the corn bunting and the golden plover.

A public inquiry, which ended last December, was re-opened today by Inspector Robert Barker to hear concerns about "significant environmental issues" that the Government believes were not raised at the previous hearing.

Charles George QC, representing Nottingham City and Notts County Councils, denied the scheme would harm wild birds."What seems to have triggered the inquiry was the claim that the southern part of the Park and Ride site had been designated a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation.

"Whilst the designation was seriously considered, it is now common ground that no new SINC has been designated and that, given the revised criteria, this arable land could never be designated a SINC by reason of use by over-wintering birds."

Notts Wildlife Trust wants "additional mitigation measures," to be implemented, but Mr George said it would be "unreasonable" to require alternative land to be provided.

"The case for further mitigating measures is disputed. The land to be developed is small within the overall context of more than 1,300 adjoining hectares of Clifton Pastures. Any effects on birds will be insignificant. "

The inquiry, at Notts County football ground, ends tomorrow.