Penzance-Scilly link: Public asked for feedback on plans

The Department for Transport and European funding the project

Residents are being urged to give feedback on plans for the future development of a west Cornwall harbour.

Last year plans to help finance a new ferry terminal for links between Penzance and the Isles of Scilly were thrown out by the government.

It refused to contribute £35m saying it was "a scheme that was very poor value for money".

Penzance town council has said it is "vital" people give their opinions on the final two options.

The public exhibition showcases the latest ideas, including changes to the harbour's North Arm where the cargo ship the Gry Maritha docks, as well as some dredging of the harbour.

Nearly £4m was spent on the failed bid for a ferry link between Penzance and the Isles of Scilly.

'Economic prosperity'

Cornwall Council spent £2.53m, with a further £1.31m coming from the government and from European funding.

To get Department for Transport and European funding, the project would have to be completed by the end of 2015.

Nigel Hallwell, from Hyder Consulting, said: "We've been brought in by the Penzance Town Council to make sure things move forward.

"Dredging for these two options is preferable but not an absolute necessity."

Penzance Town Council project adviser, Tony Woodhams said keeping the "vital link" to and from Penzance to the Isles of Scilly had been central to all the plans put forward.

"It is absolutely essential that is maintained for the islanders as well as the economic prosperity of Penzance.

"By the end of the month we need to get some idea of where we are going back to the Department of Transport and to Cornwall Council."

The exhibition continues until 21:00 GMT at Penzance Gallery on Coinagehall Street, Penzance.