The Menai Bridge is already a major tourist attraction

The aim of the Mona Antiqua project is to make better use of the island's heritage sites and resources to boost its tourism potential.

A report on the proposals states that Anglesey's "rich heritage also encompasses its outstanding natural history, wildlife geology, built heritage and Welsh culture."

The report calls Anglesey a "Treasure Island" of facilities and potential attractions.

The council's executive committee are discussing the report's recommendations on Monday.

Anglesey is special because it is an island, a big island with a spectacular coastline - it is a 'Treasure Island' Mona Antiqua report

It has been put together by a team of experts in archaeology, interpretation, marketing, tourism and architecture.

"A significant number of existing visitors to Anglesey are already attracted to its antiquities and bird life and it is considered that the island's heritage could be more effectively presented," says the report.

It lists a series of recommendations on how to build on existing facilities.

These include establishing a "cluster of facilities to achieve critical mass" to bring wider economic benefit to areas such as Beaumaris, Newborough, Holyhead Mountain and Amlwch.

The report also suggests making the most of the island's coastline, which boasts five blue flag beaches and 26 yellow flag beaches.

Anglesey Sea Zoo could become an interpretation centre

Anglesey Sea Zoo would be promoted as a facility to interpret the Menai Straits and attractions would be linked by walking, cycling and motoring routes.

One of the sites which has not been developed to its full potential, says the report, is Llanddwyn Island near Newborough.

According to Welsh mythology, the tiny island in the Menai Straits was the home of Santes Dwynwen, the patron saint of Welsh lovers.

The island and popular beach is now a national nature reserve managed by the Countryside Council for Wales.

'Treasure Island'

But report authors say it is one of the facilities on the island which is understaffed and irregularly open which could be further exploited as an interpretation site for the island's rich history.

According to the report: "The study examines the audience for interpretation and proposes a Regional Interpretative Strategy for Anglesey.

"The RIS identifies the themes and stories of Ynys M�n that can be used to interpret the island's heritage.

"The overarching theme is Anglesey is special because it is an island, a big island with a spectacular coastline. It is a 'Treasure Island'."

The study was undertaken by Ian Parkin Consultancy and the whole Mona Antiqua project is coordinated by Menter Mon in partnership with the county council, the Welsh Development Agency, CADW, the Countryside Council for Wales and other agencies.