ONE of the UK's leading developers has renewed interest in providing a marina in Teignmouth.

Midlands-based Castle Marinas Ltd wants to sink money into the project next to Polly Steps to provide more than 300 berths for a high-class marina, turning it into a mini-Torquay. The company is linked with top developer Castlemore, renowned for its 2.5million sq ft urban development at Temple Quay, Bristol, and the Brent Cross shopping centre.

The marina will provide for the yachting set with boats of up to 40ft long, whose owners enjoy hopping around the coastline. The project is in its infancy, but received backing from groups including the Harbour Commission and councillors at a meeting on Friday. It is hoped to directly create about 12 jobs, and boost the economy by investment and visitor spending.

Company representatives John Harding and Sam Bourne presented the case to groups including the Teignmouth Regeneration Project and Harbour Commissioners. It follows earlier discussions with Associated British Ports, the Environment Agency and Teignbridge Council.

Mr Harding said: 'There was a strong consensus view on our Teignmouth marina proposal at last week's meeting, which is very encouraging. 'Those present were keen that Castle Marinas now commits to the next phase of infrastructure feasibility studies which would establish if the marina can be economically viable.

'The marina would be a major economic boost to Teignmouth and the surrounding area. It is a well-accepted fact in our industry that for each single pound spent in a marina by visitors, another £7 to £10 is spent by them in the local community, too.' Mr Bourne heads the Yacht Harbour Association Ltd, a group for the development of coastal and inland boating facilities. Castle Marinas Ltd first mooted the idea a few years ago. The council invited expressions of interest, but no other developers came forward.

A feasibility study to assess costs, existing foreshore rights, planning and infrastructure is expected to take a year to complete. Other considerations include clashes with the working port and effect on local river users.

Developers will then look again if the project is still financially viable. Teignbridge council's Head of Central Administration Services, Graham Walker chaired the meeting. 'It has to stand up financially otherwise no one is going to invest in it, said Mr Walker.

'No matter how big or small it is, it is going to have to pay for itself including the development costs involved and that is down to the private sector, because it will not be subsidised by the public purse,' he said. County councillor for Teignmouth, Chris Bray said: 'This can be seen as a green light for a feasibility study. 'Everyone at the meeting was in favour of the scheme but only if any problems that do arise can be overcome,' he said.

The development of a marina is part of long-term plans endorsed by Tomorrow's Teignmouth, the town's regeneration project.