A public inquiry is due to open into plans for a �7m marina in Beaumaris on Anglesey.

Proposals by the Anglesey Boat Company for a 450-berth development at Gallow's Point won the backing of the island's council.

But they were called in by the National Assembly for Wales following a series of objections.

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

But the Countryside Council for Wales lodged an objection on the grounds that a marina could impact on sensitive envoronmental areas along the Menai Straits.

Mussel bed fears

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

It argued that the development could damage nearby mussel beds and force mussel fisherman out of business.

Dafydd Jones, the man behind the Beaumaris Marina project, has said he was taken aback when he heard of the decision to hold a planning inquiry.

All sides will have a chance to put their case before the planning inspectorate of the National Assembly when the inquiry opens in Beaumaris on Thursday.