Fishermen have drawn up plans to rival controversial multi-million proposals which would change the face of Littlehampton.

The original plans were for a pub, youth hostel and visitor centre on the riverbank but were greeted with dismay by fishermen who said the move would destroy their livelihoods.

They said if the plans went ahead dozens of jobs would be lost and the town would cease to have a working port. The proposals are part of the Littlehampton 2000 project to

make the town more attractive to tourists.

But fishermen have now submitted plans, which include a new harbour board office, to be used by port officials with a conference room, which could be used by school parties. Guided tours down the river to celebrate 100 years of Littlehampton history could also be set up with new walkways for visitors with parking and toilet facilities.

And the plans include trebling the number of dry berths on the river to 70 for boats and workshops for those working on the river Arun. The fisherman have also drawn up a list of events, including regattas and visits from tall ships to attract tourists.

They believe the plans, which will not go before the council, would create up to 50 new jobs and produce £300,000 worth of revenue every year.

Clive Mills, spokesman, said: "It is all about putting life back into the river. It is a main tourist attraction and people want to see the river in full working order. School parties could visit to learn about the town's heritage. We ought to be using the assets of the town to promote it rather than taking them away."

Arun District Council has taken the fishermen to court after they failed to move from land

after eviction notices were served. Fishermen are using a 200-year-old law - the White Herring Fisheries Act of 1771, renamed the Sea Fisheries Act in 1868 - which states any piece of land used by fisher-man for casting their nets can be claimed by them if it becomes derelict.

The case will be heard at Worthing County Court on June 12 and 13.

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