PLANS have been revealed which could transform Poole into the yachting leisure capital of the South Coast.

An investment approaching £21 million by Poole Harbour Commissioners could see the port welcoming super-yachts, cruise ships, Olympic sailors and world-class regattas.

The commissioners are battling back after losing 25 per cent of their revenue with the loss of Brittany Ferries’ year-round Barfleur service, and the resulting cut in 41 port jobs, with massive plans for the future.

Chief executive Jim Stewart and chairman Richard Lacey have launched the port master plan which includes: l an £800,000, 55-berth mini-marina in time for the 2012 Olympics l a £100,000 berth for 200m cruise ships l providing Eneco with a possible base for the proposed wind farm l a £20m, 800-berth marina at Hamworthy, beyond Poole Yacht Club.

“We can’t stand still,” said Mr Stewart. “We have got to ensure Poole Harbour Commissioners remains financially viable for the future.

“Certainly there is no intention of running down traditional port activities. This is an additional revenue stream which will help us to fulfil all the other tasks we have in the harbour.”

Planning permission is already being sought for a mini-marina at the unused third ro-ro berth to be up and running by next February.

“It would enable Poole to attract a lot more vessels in time for the Olympics,” said Mr Stewart.

There are also plans for two huge buoys where 1,000 passenger cruise liners could tie up.

There would be space for super-yachts, such as Roman Abramovich’s multi-million- pound, 86-metre Ecstasea, which has visited before.

Mr Lacey is keen to attract world-class sailing regattas and the elite Luis Vuitton Trophy match-racing regatta is looking for a home.

Discussions are being held with Eneco, developer of the £1 billion offshore wind farm, which is seeking a 10-acre site to lease for 50 years as a supply base.

And a longer-term plan for a major marina tucked in on the edge of the port could include a marine business park and create 120 jobs.

The plans are at an early stage and there would be major consultation and an environmental impact assessment undertaken.

“The last major investment was the early ’80s when we put in the two ro-ro berths and formed the port as we know it,” said Mr Lacey. “Here we are looking at the next giant step forward.”