The Welsh Assembly has approved plans for a 450-berth marina on Anglesey in north Wales.

Two years ago, assembly planners held a public inquiry on the �7m scheme at Gallows Point in Beaumaris.

The proposed scheme is at Gallows Point

On Tuesday, the assembly's cross-party Planning Decision Committee also backed proposals for a 25-turbine windfarm in Denbighshire.

Lawrence Roberts, speaking on behalf of the Beaumaris-based Anglesey Boat Company, which proposed the marina scheme, said he was "delighted".

"When it is built there will be �2m income coming into the economy.

"It will be one of the best marinas in the country," he added.

Beaumaris mayor Martin Pritchard agreed, and called the decision "superb news".

"It will be a boost for the town," he said.

The scheme had been opposed by the Countryside Council for Wales and local mussel fishermen.

Both suggested that any development would destroy mussel beds along the Menai Strait.

But Mr Roberts played down any problems, saying the developers were very concerned about environmental issues.

"The marina is being built where it is to avoid these issues," he said.

Objections

The scheme had been approved by Anglesey planners in December 1999.

But the Assembly's Environment Minister Sue Essex called the project in for an assessment of its ecological impact.

Many local businesses see this development as a way of boosting trade in the town

Ieuan Wyn Jones, Ynys M�n AM

Objections had also been made by the North Western and North Wales Sea Fisheries Committee.

It had argued that the development could force mussel fisherman out of business.

The marina plan has been backed by local people, who said it would bring much needed jobs and prosperity to the area.

Supporters of the marina project claimed up to 150 jobs could be created.

It is expected to be finished in two years.

Ynys M�n AM Ieuan Wyn Jones said the people of Beaumaris had waited long enough for the decision.

"We now have a real opportunity to turn around the area's economic fortunes, and to provide a facility which will add significantly to the town's tourist potential," he said.

"Many local businesses see this development as a way of boosting trade in the town."

Turbines approved

The cross-party Planning Decision Committee of the assembly also approved an application by Windjen for a 25-turbine windfarm at Tir Mostyn in Denbighshire.

The scheme, which was originally for 33 turbines, had been in the pipeline for more than two years.

Denbigshire council had supported the application, against the recommendation of officials and opposition from local conservation groups.

But the assembly called in the application and ordered a public inquiry.

Friends of the Earth Cymru backed Windjen's proposals, saying the turbines would provide renewable energy for 10,000 people.