The National Trust has joined a chorus of voices objecting to plans to drill for oil in Coldharbour.

The organisation has said the application by Europa Oil and Gas to put a 35 metre drill at Bury Hill Wood would be unacceptable.

The proposed development would continue for 18 weeks and also includes works to the access track, fencing, staff car park and lighting.

The trust is concerned about the impact the plans will have on the area – which is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Area of Great Landscape Value.

It also said the proposed access route from the A24 using Coldharbour Lane was unsuitable and would have a severe impact on traffic flows.

A National Trust spokeswoman said: "We believe that the proposal will have unacceptable adverse environmental impacts particularly in terms of landscape, visual amenity, traffic and access which cannot be satisfactorily mitigated; that there is no overriding national need for the proposal; and that it is contrary to government policy."

Europa has submitted a planning application to Surrey County Council to begin the exploratory drilling.

But the plans have met fierce resistance from residents and countryside campaigners.

Campaign group Leith Hill Action Group was set up to stop the drill plans.

Stuart Mclachlan, of LHAG, welcomed the National Trust's objection.

He said: "To have a large organisation like the National Trust on board and underlining our cause is really good.

"We are very pleased that they have objected in the way they have. They are particularly valuable because their objection to the environmental impact on the green belt and the AONB is also the main thrust or our complaint.

"Our concern has always been the long term damage to the access road and the ancient banks on that road."

Europa Oil & Gas were unavailable for comment.