A PUBLIC consultation is being launched over ambitious plans to regenerate a part of the Windermere shoreline, turning it into a ‘world class’ visitor attraction.

Windermere Aquatic, which owns land on the waterfront at Bowness Bay, says it wants to extend the Windermere Quays marina as a first stage of the process.

The company also revealed that future plans would include a ‘high class’ hotel, retail units and improved public access to the lake. The plans are being shown to the public today (Thursday) from noon to 7 pm at Windermere Quays Visitor Centre, Glebe Road.

The public and lake users are being invited to make comments which will be considered as a planning application is prepared.

A spokeswoman for Windermere Aquatic said the ambition was to create a ‘world class waterfront park’ which will require both public and private investment.

“The Quays offer a wide range of facilities designed to assist the public in a safe and friendly manner as they pursue their interests in marine activities.

“ln addition to the berthing and movement of boats up to 20 metres in length, facilities exist within the marina for full servicing and maintenance, and the company has developed an excellent reputation for providing sales of boats and associated services both in the Lake District and nationally.”

Windermere Aquatic is a family business which has been operating from Windermere Quays since 1971 and now employs 32 staff.

The expansion will safeguard these jobs in addition to creating further opportunities for employment in the area.

Managing director and owner Grahame Armer said: “We have drawn up revised plans for the development of the Quays following feedback from existing lake users.

“We have undertaken a detailed Navigational Risk Assessment and this has informed the new scheme which expands the marina in a safe and attractive way, taking account of the marine industry requirements.”