New efforts to introduce disabled access to ferries and reduce conflict between boat operators on Prince of Wales Pier have received town council backing.

The Falmouth Harbourside Community Interest Company was set up to improve facilities at the pier and are in the early stages of drawing up plans for a floating pontoon and three-storey boat terminal.

As it stands, there is no Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant provision for disabled access to commercial boats and wheelchair users have to be carried down the steps, which can often be slippery.

As well as improving disabled access, the company also aims to reduce the kiosk-related conflict on the pier between rival boat owners.

They say that much of this conflict comes from the fact that certain kiosk locations are seen as superior, and they would reduce conflict by creating a 'heritage boat' area for existing operators to trade from.

Councillor for Boslowick ward Steve Eva said: "We have got an asset here that's crumbling away and no one's using it. I look forward to seeing how it goes."

Councillor for Trescobeas ward Brod Ross said: "I look forward to seeing this as a completed project. I hope it comes to fruition, disabled access is much-needed on the pier."