THE team behind plans to dredge Falmouth harbour say the scheme remains on track despite a new study finding the project would have a negative impact on the local environment.

Falmouth Harbour Commissioners (FHC) and A&P Falmouth say proposals to dredge a deep water channel are vital for the future economy of both the town and the whole of Cornwall.

However, the Marine Management Organisation has determined the proposals would impact negatively on the Fal and Helford Estuaries Special Area of Conservation.

The decision does not take into account the economic benefits of the scheme, which would allow larger ships, including the largest cruise liners, to use the port.

David Ellis, chairman of the FHC, said: “The port development project has the potential to make a major positive impact on the Cornish economy, including allowing visits by larger cruise ships and positioning Falmouth to benefit from the significant future development of the offshore renewable energy sector.

“We now need to continue working with our partners to effectively demonstrate the benefits of the project and to highlight the substantial level of environmental protection already proposed.

“The port masterplan exercise has indicated that there will be substantial gains in both jobs and economic output if the dredging goes ahead.”

Local MP Sarah Newton added: This scheme is vitally important for the interests of the whole country and I continue to do everything I can to help it come to fruition.”