Plans to create a marina for 60 boats within the basin at Custom House Quay have been described as "a crime against all that Falmouth stands for" and led to concerns that local boat owners will be pushed out.

Falmouth Harbour Commissioners revealed this week their leisure services arm, Falmouth Haven, has applied for planning permission for "exciting new facilities" in and around Custom House Quay in response to its strategic aims of business growth and improving facilities.

It is claimed the proposals would see Custom House Quay transformed into a modern floating marina catering for 60 small craft. A ramped walkway down to the marina would be created, enabling safe and easy access to boats.

In addition, a new outhaul facility for around 20 boats is proposed between Custom House Quay and the Grove Place Boat Park, with access via a ramp leading onto a pontoon.

Falmouth Harbour Commissioners' chief executive, Captain Mark Sansom, said: “The plans are an exciting development for Falmouth and demonstrate the benefits of creating a business arm dedicated to growth and providing good leisure facilities. We have worked closely with English Heritage and Cornwall Council ahead of submitting the planning application and welcome Falmouth Haven’s proposed scheme.”

Barry Buist, Falmouth Haven's general manager, claims the proposed facilities will provide more access and more choice for customers. "These will be fantastic facilities meeting demand for convenient small berths," he said. "They will be ideal for family day-boats and larger tenders whilst helping the regeneration of the Custom House Quay area.”

As the plans were revealed this week, letters have gone out to all those who hold a licence to berth at the quay informing them of the proposed changes and that from next April, Falmouth Haven will no longer be offering the current licence arrangements for berthing or outhauls in Custom House Quay basin.

The letters states: "The proposed development will require the existing Custom House Quay outhauls and berths to be removed. To enable this to happen all boats using the winter facilities in Custom House Quay basin will need to relocate at some point during the winter season.

"When the changes go ahead we will work with customers individually to find the best alternative facilities for them. As an existing customer, you will be offered first option to take up one do the new berths at a discounted price for the first year."

The proposals, however, have prompted a backlash on Facebook. Jim Main said: "This is crime against all that Falmouth stands for. The desires of a few lucky, and wealthy individuals will be satisfied whereas the historic and social link of Customs House Quay and the basin with the local community will be lost forever."

Martyn Alvey said: "Ultimately, this application is a 'game changer' in terms of the character of Falmouth as Custom House Quay is the final legacy of the historical maritime Falmouth and I for one believe its quaintness and traditional look should be preserved.

"If we allow it to be 'swallowed up' by modern pontoons and 'plastic fantastic' boats Falmouth will be the poorer (even if the Harbour Commissioners are a few quid the richer)."

Mark Laity said: "The ancient quays sure as hell aren't going to look v ancient with a bunch of pontoons in the middle. I am actually open to trying to make the moorings more accessible but at first sight this will destroy the character of the area."

In response to the comments posted, Capt Sansom said: "This is an exciting time for Falmouth Harbour. As custodians of the port, we need to ensure its long-term viability and these plans have that aim as their heart. There is considerable demand for new berth facilities and Falmouth Haven is dedicated to growth and improving facilities for locals and visitors.

"Pre-application advice has been sought from the planning authority and from Heritage England and the proposal fully respects the character of the quay. It is the latest in a number of uses for the quays since they were constructed.

"The need for business growth stems largely from the issues surrounding reduced commercial shipping activity and increased costs due to pension liabilities. These issues are not going to go away quickly and that is why we have tasked Falmouth Haven with making strategic business plans, such as this, to grow the business and therefore ensure the port remains viable for everyone for the future.”

Mr Buist added: "These plans will enhance facilities whilst improving standards of access and safety and significantly increase berthing capacity to help meet customer demand. Like any commercial organisation, prices will be influenced by the market, but we are developing a range of facilities to offer a wide choice to customers.

"We appreciate that such changes bring concerns, and that is why we have contacted all existing customers, inviting them to get in touch to discuss the most suitable facilities for them.”