One of the most contentious elements of a proposed new building for Porthleven shipyard has been removed from the plans by Trevor Osborne, who said he is “anxious to move forward” with the project.

When the originally proposed Innovation Building was rejected by Cornwall Council last year, one of the major causes for public concern had been the safety of a new exit being created onto Methleigh Bottoms.

This week Mr Osborne, who owns the shipyard, revealed that after this remained an issue at a public meeting into his revised plan for a newly-named Innovation Studio, it would now “not involve any entrance on to Methleigh Bottoms at all.”

He was speaking to Porthleven Town Council before deciding whether to submit a full planning application for the reworked building – aimed at encouraging new businesses to be set up by young people - which would also be smaller in size and height.

“We’re more likely to produce 50 jobs rather than 70, which is a regret, but certainly better than nothing,” he said.

Mr Osborne also said: “I have not made a decision whether to appeal the previous decision [by Cornwall Council]. I’d prefer not to. The motive for this project is to consider the viability of the local economy. We do need jobs as well as hospitality.”

Town councillor Alan Jorgensen said he supported the vision for employment, but questioned whether a business plan would be included in any formal application.

Mr Osborne said it would not, adding: “The opportunities arise from young individuals who are embracing modern technology.”

Mayor Andrew Wallis said the nature of start-up businesses usually meant short-term tenancies, with other similar buildings offering a maximum of two years, and questioned if that would be true here also.

Mr Osborne said he was “very flexible” and said he would not rule out longer term tenancies.