A MARITIME renovation project on the River Deben has received a financial boost of �2,000.

The recently-formed Whisstocks Project Community Interest Company, set up to secure the future of a derelict boatyard in Woodbridge, was granted the money from the locality budget of county councillor for Wickham Market, Michael Bond.

The grant will go towards the legal and professional costs of preparing a planning application for early next year.

The boatyard site, which is currently managed by Norwich-based FW Properties, has been empty for more than 16 years.

The Whisstocks Project, set up by the Woodbridge Riverside Trust, wants to see it owned by and run for the community. Planned activities include heritage boat building, related industry, training and work experience.

The project’s aims are to found a maritime heritage base and to safeguard continuing use of the open space within the development for community purposes.

Project leader Malcolm Hodd said: “It is very encouraging to receive this level of support from Suffolk County Council, and we are very grateful to councillor Bond for his vision, commitment and confidence in the project’s potential.”

Further information about Whisstocks and updates on latest developments can be found at whisstocksproject.co.uk.