THE latest sailing club to develop plans for a marina facility cites its proximity to Dublin as its main attraction to visiting yachts. Clontarf Y and BC, located on the northern side of the mouth of the Liffey, sees a development initially of 120 berths, with the possibility of expansion to 300, which would match Howth and Malahide.

Shore facilities would be based at the club's existing premises. "Because we're an old club, we actually have the infrastructure to take more activity," says former commodore Cass Roche, who is responsible for the project.

The berths would be occupied by current members as well as new comers while about 60 swing moorings would accommodate Mermaids and other boats.

The club runs a full racing calendar for IDRA 14s, Mermaids, GP 14s and Fireballs as well as small cruiser/racers from May to October. The CYBC is always represented in the round Ireland race and has an annual cruise in company. The new facility would extend the season while proving attractive to visitors, particularly from the UK.

The crucial question of funding is the next stage but Roche is upbeat about prospects. The advantage of being located within greater harbour area means that floating breakwaters with one minor fixed defence will keep costs under control.

A total cost of £1 million is projected for the development and 50 per cent funding from the State and EC has been targeted.

The other key issue, that of the Department of Marine foreshore licence policy, has yet to be tackled. The CYBC is awaiting the conclusion of the Irish Sailing Association's discussions with the department on the subject following the backlash from around the coast at December's Marine Institute seminar.

"The biggest stumbling block to date has been that of the foreshore licence," according to Roche. " It's acting as a hindrance to the development of sailing, cruising and tourism. It's the one thing that everyone agrees on around the country."