A PROJECT to dredge Falmouth harbour has taken a leap forward this week.

A visit by Paul Kenny, general secretary of the GMB union, to show his support coincided with the announcement that a dredging trial will take place in April.

It is hoped this will show no material harm would be caused to dead maerl beds, the main environmental stumbling block to permission being given.

If the Marine Management Organisation grants permission, the dredging could begin in 2013.

A&P Falmouth managing director Peter Child said: "It feels like we have actually got a way forward – this has got momentum.

"If it is proven that the habitat survives, there is no reason not to go ahead."

Mr Kenny said there had been "too many years of delays".

The project has been on the table for a decade and is the key to a £106 million investment to develop the docks, including a new cruise terminal, a sustainable technology hub and creation of about 800 new jobs.

Mr Kenny said: "This is a golden opportunity for long-term sustainable employment within the ship repair business.

"I don't dismiss the environmental objections, but I believe they can be overcome. People may have to make concessions on both sides. There is a balance."

He will take the matter up with Europe and is "openly talking to ministers".

He toured the docks to meet employees and management before meeting business leaders in the town who support the scheme.

Tony Tomlinson, of the Harbour Commissioners, said: "It has taken nearly ten years and it's ten years too long.

"Every time we think we have reached the stage we need to, there is another hoop to jump through.

"Public support is still very much needed."

A petition in support set up by the local union has attracted nearly 2,000 signatures and is available as an e-petition at www.epetitions.dir ect.gov.uk/petitions/24572

A town centre march is also being planned by the union for April.

For more details on the arguments against the dredging see page 27.