A study says the reef would create 200-metre long surfing rides

Crucial consultations about the scheme with representatives of the local community are to take place over the coming weeks.

The reef, which could cost up to �6m, is being proposed at Tolcarne beach, Newquay Bay, on the north Cornwall coast.

Fistral beach at Newquay is already one of Europe's top wave riding spots, but the new reef could provide world class waves.

That is according to a feasibility study carried out for the Newquay Artificial Reef Company by marine consultants.

Surfer and civil engineer Anthony Weight, who initiated the scheme, said forthcoming meetings with members of the local community were "very important" to the progress of the project.

Fistral beach is already a top surfing spot

Mr Weight said they would choose whether or not to back the scheme which, he said, could provide more jobs and wealth for Cornwall.

Risk management and traffic impact assessments would also have to be carried out in connection with the project.

The reef would be built from giant, sand-filled textile bags, with surf breaks ranking alongside international breaks in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, according to the feasibility study.

The twin-armed, arrow-shaped reef would create 200-metre long surfing rides on each "arm".

Quality conditions

Quality surfing conditions were likely to occur on 106 days a year with the new reef, said the study.

The consultants said the reef could last up to 100 years with maintenance.