Proposals for a �30m enclosed harbour in a Norfolk seaside town have been unveiled.

Landowner Hon Robert Harbord-Hammond's plan for Cromer includes a yacht marina with 150 berths, mooring for the Cromer Lifeboat, a commercial fishing harbour, a restaurant and cafe.

The plan, which could create 500 new jobs, also includes shops, a boatyard and dry boat storage.

Mr Harbord-Hammond has had preliminary discussions with local businessmen and planners over the scheme.

Robert Harbord-Hammond also has plans for homes

"The scheme should help Cromer become an all-year-round resort with all-year-round employment," he told BBC News Online.

"If there is a marina there will also be refitting and repair work over the year.

"It will completely change Cromer."

It will also allow the Cromer lifeboat to get in and out easily.

"At present the lifeboat can't get in or out at low tide," he said.

The plan has been welcomed by traders in Cromer.

Annette Dunham, president of the Cromer District Chamber of Trade and Commerce, said: "It would be a lovely scheme if it comes about.

'Plan ideal'

"I think it would be ideal, it would be well-received."

Ella Carstairs, of the Museum of Straw Work in Cromer, said: "I am all for it. Cromer is a seaside town and this would fit in.

"I think it is a very good idea."

But Martin Walton, case worker for north Norfolk with the Council for the Protection of Rural England (CPRE), urged caution over the plans.

"I would want to see detailed plans with environmental assessments and I would want any development to protect the unique quality of Cromer," he said.

Any alterations to the Norfolk coastline might have an impact on coastal erosion, flooding or drainage.

"We have to take a cautious approach to something like this because of the many problems that could be created," he said.

Mr Harbord-Hammond is also developing plans to build affordable housing in another part of the town.

He is hoping to put forward detailed plans on the enclosed harbour to North Norfolk District Council later this year.