The man who wants to bring a 30ft sculpture to Porthleven to commemorate the devastating storms of two years ago has explained his vision in the wake of a tide of criticism.

He has put in a pre-planning application to see if Cornwall Council would agree in principle to a sculpture using one of the nine-metre broken wooden baulks that are used to protect Porthleven’s inner-harbour and the moored boats.

Two of these baulks were shattered by the immense power of the storms back in February 2014, which resulted in waves crashing into the inner-harbour and sinking a number of boats, with all vessels having to be removed from the harbour for the first time in more than a century.

Trevor Osborne, of the Harbour and Dock Company, told the Packet: "This event is part of the history of Porthleven and cannot be forgotten. Its emotional and physical impact remains with those who were personally involved in the trauma and those who love Porthleven, including myself, felt proud that the community came together in a common endeavour to protect the harbour and the village.

"This historic event must surely be recorded and recognised as a part of Porthleven’s modern history. It is for this reason, and to commemorate the impact of the storm and the reaction of the people of Porthleven, that I decided it would be right to commission a public sculpture to remind local people and visitors of those dark and terrifying days."

If given the go-ahead the sculpture, designed by artist Lucinda Burgess, who lived in port for a time after winning Bath Spa University's Porthleven Prize, would sit on the quay in front of the Ship Inn.

The aim is for a seat to be placed against the wall and, as the viewer sits looking towards The Institute and clock tower, which was used by many to gauge the height of the waves, the iconic building is “framed” in a box formed by metal and wood.

Mr Osborne acknowledged: "The proposal will doubtless be controversial – another characteristic of Porthleven – but in time will fit into the landscape and architectural significance of the harbour in a way which endorses the inherent character of Porthleven."

However, many in Porthleven have been quick to criticise the proposed structure, including on the port’s dedicated Facebook page.

Describing it as "an eyesore," Kate Bell wrote: "If this happens, I for one will be totally gutted! What are they thinking?"

Lydia Anne Catherall agreed: "Looks stupid, like something that's broken and has just been left there."

Megan Bawden, who was born on Breageside, described it as a "monstrosity", while Dan Greet questioned why the incident should be commemorated at all.

He wrote: "Surely it's a day to forget and not one to want to remember – a huge loss of ownership and money, some things I wouldn't want to be reminded on when trying to rebuild."

There were others who welcomed the idea of some form of memorial but questioned the design.

Mark Adair wrote: "I like the idea of remembering the storm – was an epic storm and the community pulled together. Don't think this design reflects anything from the time, nor will it give any visitor a clue what it’s there for."

Many people were in agreement with Lindsay Gannon’s suggestion to use the wood to instead build a bench with a plaque, which that would allow users to enjoy the sea view.

The sculpture does have its supporters, however, with Michele Matthews writing: "I see nothing wrong with having a contemporary sculpture here in Porthleven, especially using such an iconic material as the baulk as its framework. I think it could be quite beautiful."

Becky McMichael agreed: "A contemporary sculpture would be a striking contrast between the heritage held by the village and the future-looking outlook of the Porthleven community. I'd support something tasteful and fitting and much prefer something of impact to another bench."

Porthleven fish and chip shop owner Roland Lowery reminded people that many said the Angel of the North was an eyesore when it was first put up, but it was now a tourist attraction.

In order to go ahead the sculpture will need full planning permission and also listed building consent from Cornwall Council, as although the land belongs to Mr Osborne the harbour is Grade 2 listed.