A MODEL of the Beaconsfield Motorway Service Area is on show for the public, and has prompted criticism as motorists say they would have to cross a busy carriageway to leave the new development.

The controversial area (MSA), which will include a petrol station, hotel and shopping complex, a lake and 600-space car park on its five-acre site, will be built partly on green belt land at Burtley Wood, just off the A355 and near Junction 2 of the M40.

However Beaconsfield Town Councillor Archie Legg, who went to see the plan, said: "We have got what we've got and this is what it is going to be. The only problem I can see is the access to the motorway. Traffic leaving the MSA must cross the busy A355 to access the motorway. That is very bad planning in my opinion."

The display will be open from 9am until 1pm Monday to Friday, and can be seen at Beaconsfield Town Hall.

Cllr Legg, who is also the Beaconsfield Town Council representative on the liaison committee between Buckinghamshire County Council, South Bucks District Council and the developer Swayfields, said: "Quite a few people have come in and we would like quite a few more people who are interested to come in and view it.

"I think the developers have tried very hard to make it minimal and aesthetically sound. A lot of trees are remaining and more will be planted. All the rainwater is channelled into that lake so the lake is serving two purposes. One is for flood water control and the second is aesthetic."

Swayfields Ltd, based in Lincoln, produced the model. It says it has been working closely with South Bucks District Council since detailed plans were approved on July 18.

Swayfields' spokesman Andrew Long said: "It's the best way of demonstrating the detailed design as not everyone is able to visualise it. The model is the best way of bringing the MSA to life."

Preparatory work is already under way at the site, and the main project begins at the end of the month. The MSA was approved by former Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott in October 2005, to a storm of protest. It is expected to open on August 31, 2008.