Plans for a construction base at the Port of Ramsgate have raised concern among residents.

O’Regan Group presented the proposal to Ramsgate Town Council planning committee in mid-December for block manufacturing, aggregate washing and waste wood processing.

The company said that the base would create a potential 47 jobs in block manufacturing, aggregate washing and waste wood processing.

They have yet to send official plans to Thanet District Council (TDC).

Cllr Peter Campbell voiced his concerns about the proposal and announced it as a single item agenda for a public meeting on January 12.

He said: “My main concern is this application will stifle my view for this area of the Port, which would be for an all encompassing large yacht maintenance facility.

“I know TDC does not have the funds to finance this project therefore it should be marketing this proposal in the private sector.

“Success would generate a revenue stream enabling the ongoing upgrade of the separate Royal Harbour into a top quality grade 2 listed marina.

“Due to concern from local residents I am organising a Ramsgate Town meeting in Chatham House Grammar School Hall at 7pm on January 12.

“It will allow residents the opportunity of seeing the application and questioning the applicant and a TDC planning officer.”

Friends of Ramsgate Seafront (FORS) chairman Kandy Jones expressed concerns.

She said: “We believe this would prove to be environmentally dangerous so close to the Royal Harbour and the potential of 47 jobs is not worth the risk.”

She claimed there should be a full environmental assessment for these developments and that other alternatives should be explored for the site.

“The port leisure facilities should be explored as a longer term way of generating money.

“We look forward to the opportunity of an open meeting to fully discuss this matter.”

Thanet South Green Party PPC Ian Driver raised further worries about O’Regan Group’s negotiations with Thanet council.

He said: “There are two former senior council officers representing the O’Regan Group in its negotiations.

“These officers developed an expert knowledge about the operation of the Port and local planning rules, while working for TDC.”

In a letter to TDC’s monitoring officer Steven Boyle, Mr Driver said: “I am not saying anyone is acting improperly, but this is a sensitive situation involving controversial plans and former senior staff.

“The Council must take actions to demonstrate that this process is entirely above board and beyond reproach.”