THE controversial idea of building a multi-storey car park in Cowes has been resurrected.

It is part of a proposal for a huge project to transform the town's harbour into a mini Gunwharf Quays.

At a meeting of Cowes Town Council, Cllr John Nicholson asked members to throw their weight behind proposals, first revealed in the County Press, which could see the town's harbour area turned into a luxury shopping centre.

However, councillors backed away from fully endorsing the proposals before they had a clearer idea of what the project involved.

As reported in March 2017, the proposals involve rebuilding the harbour area known as Town Quay, between the Red Jet terminal and Cowes Yacht Haven, and improving the transport interchange at Fountain Yard.

The idea was floated in 2016 by the former mayor of Cowes, Geoff Banks, and involves input from Cowes Harbour Commission, Red Funnel, the IW Chamber of Commerce and the town council.

Cllr Nicholson said Cowes was at risk of decline if the development did not go ahead.

He said: "This is incredibly important for the town."

He added a multi-storey car park had not been ruled out of the regeneration scheme.

However, Cllr Wendy Wardrop reminded members of a proposal 15 years ago which had included building a multi-story car park in Cross Street. Around 5,000 residents signed a petition against the proposals.

Cllr Lynn Hammond said: "We do need something done, but not to the detriment of residents."

Mayor of Cowes, Cllr Paul Fuller, agreed a lot of ill-feeling had been created in the town 15 years ago because of the previous proposals.

Members agreed to hold a special meeting involving all stakeholders.