Plans for the £7 million development could include a dramatic arch-shaped Guildhall, which will lead on to a public square, and provide a new focus and heart for Newlyn.

It is also hoped that the demolition of the existing market will restore the connection between the harbour and the village.

The vision was outlined by architects Pringle Richards Sharratt and the proposals are expected to be discussed by Penwith planners early next month.

Partner Ian Sharratt said a big part of the design would be the open space, which would be created just opposite Keel Alley.

The new Guildhall may be used as a mixed-use community or all-purpose market area once the day's fish sales had been completed, he added.

The market would be divided into sections which could be isolated, enabling the fish market to just use the amount of space required depending on the size of the catch.

Tony Woodhams, Newlyn's fisheries project officer, said it was vital that the project was a success, adding that £18 million worth of fish was landed at Newlyn last year and that around 740 jobs were dependant on fishing.

"The Government has shown great confidence in what we are doing and the whole community of Newlyn has been brilliantly engaged in the project," he said.

article copyright THE CORNISHMAN