THE newly re-formed Tamar Valley Preservation Association this week said it has so far counted more than 670 signatures on a petition fighting the proposed development of a boatshed and engine store at Weir Quay.

The project is being spearheaded by Weir Quay Community Watersports Hub Club, which is seeking to provide a base for sailing club and gig club members — the lease on their former facilities expired two years ago.

The hub club fears that without a base, the two thriving clubs could face closure. The club says it has no intention of expanding, but simply wishes to enjoy simple facilities 100 yards from its original site.

But the application for planning permission, in an area of outstanding natural beauty, has split the community.

The TVPA will be sending its petition to West Devon Borough Council, which will decide the outcome of the planning application, and a submission suggesting an alternative site for the boatshed, next to the existing slipway.

Vic Gardner, spokesman for the TVPA, said: 'The association simply cannot understand why the applicants want to build a boathouse in a field some distance from the slipway, on the other side of a road, damaging an amenity enjoyed by others, when made up ground of no marine ecological value already used for boat-related activities exists beside the slipway. It seems insane.

'We believe the submission, in three parts, fairly represents the views of a significant part of the active population of the Bere Peninsula.

'It draws attention to the existing amenity value of the area, raises objections to the location proposed for development and identifies an obvious alternative in a positive manner.'

Last week, Bere Ferrers Parish Council voted to support the hub club's application after the club said it was willing to modify the proposed car park area.

A spokesman for West Devon Borough Council said: 'We are waiting for updated information from the applicant and when we receive this, it is likely that we will reconsult on the application.

'As with any planning application, all letters of representation received by the council are summarised within committee reports which are put before the planning and licensing committee. The representations are also placed on our website and are available to all councillors to view.'