A PROJECT to create artificial reefs near Wey-mouth to boost diving and fishing industries is facing bumpy waters.

The Wreck to Reef (W2R) project has received a cash boost to progress plans, just after getting Dorset County Council on board following months of discussions.

But project leaders face a showdown with the local Sailing fraternity which is concerned about the location of the proposed site in Ringstead Bay as it would conflict with racing areas and routes.

The original preferred site was at Balaclava Bay, Portland, but this would have interfered with a military training area.

Local sailors maintain they support the W2R scheme in principle.

But commodore of the Royal Dorset Yacht Club Captain Gareth Peaston said the Ringstead Bay site would a ‘recipe for disaster’ because of the potential for accidents.

Capt Peaston said: “It should be away from traffic movements.

“The Wreck to Reef people said they would come up with a code of conduct but corners would be cut.

“The site would have to be marked with lit buoys and who is going to pay for that?”

Weymouth Sailing Club commodore Mark Bugler described the reef plan as an ‘exciting new venture.’ But he said the site would create a ‘fixed set of co-ordinates for which high speed Ribs and dive boats will make for upon leaving Weymouth Harbour.’ He added: “This will create a marine motorway through the area used by recreational water users.

“The effect of wash from dive vessels will present a hazard to sailors and small boat users.”

Chief executive of the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy John Tweed said: “We have suggested a meeting with W2R with a view to finding a solution that is acceptable to everyone.”

Sean Webb from W2R said the site was moved eastwards for the fourth time following a meeting last November.

He said the site is now on the edge of any shelter from south westerly winds and Natural England would object if it is pushed further east.

Mr Webb said the new site had been given the green light following consultation with statutory bodies.

He said: “We are aware some sailors are concerned, however we have also had overwhelming support of sailors from local clubs.

“It is important that Weymouth Bay be accessible to all.

“Many local businesses from both the leisure and commercial side of the watersport industry have added their support to W2R.”

Mr Webb added: “Wreck to Reef has asked for meetings several times with the sailing clubs and we will make every effort to approach those clubs again so that we can address any members’ concerns.”