MORE people will be able to enjoy boating around Poole Harbour if plans to extend a Sandbanks marina go ahead, it is claimed.

The private members-only Royal Motor Yacht Club wants to build a new basin for 34 boats where 50 swinging moorings currently sit, to meet their long waiting list.

RMYC Secretary Paul Reidy says the “modest” extension off Panorama Road will open up sailing to more people at a cheaper price. “This is going to enhance boating in the area and allow more access to the public on the peninsula,” he said.

The club gained more than 200 moorings from Sandbanks Boatyard Marina in July.

A proportion of these will be given up, in line with Poole Harbour Commissioner rules, if Poole council planners grant permission in November.

A footpath to the water may also need to be moved slightly.

Mr Reidy said: “Less than half the moorings we acquired were being let on an annual basis.

“We’re hoping to grow that business.

“We’re not a commercial organisation and hope to reduce the costs for the public.”

But some mariners in the area fear the expansion, involving dredging up two metres of sediment and building a wave screen, would limit public access.

Shaun Leveque has had a swinging mooring at Sandbanks for four years.

He said: “We bought a boat so that we could enjoy using it whenever we choose, but this has just become too stressful for boating to be a pleasure if we stay in or around Sandbanks.

“We will be leaving Poole.”

Back in 2008, an application to build a pontoon berthing for a further 72 boats and wave screen 75 metres north of the existing basin was rejected by planners.

Neighbours can comment on the application until Monday, September 26.