Many fear that the quality of their lives will be adversely affected by another huge apartment block on the river.

"I welcome development and job creation but this is more suited to
Marbella than to a heritage town like Ballina," said local Fine Gael councillor, Dr Phyl Bugler.

Dan Minchin, a marine biologist, who lives close to the marina site, said that he wanted to see the marina developed, but he was disappointed at the scale of what he saw when he went to view the plan this week.

"Many people will be surprised and unhappy with this plan," he said. "There is a large wedge shaped apartment block. It's very futuristic. It would be brilliant in Chicago, but is it appropriate to a small heritage town like Ballina?"

The biggest issue with the dissenters, however, is whether it will really do anything for the development of water sport or local tourism.

"There is no increase in berths. In fact the number of berths appears to be down from 250 to 230. It's more about residential accommodation with 85 apartments. One side of the building is four and a half storeys high, " said Dr Bugler.

The capacity of the infrastructure to cope with the development is also a source of concern. Roads leading to the site are very narrow and the Ballina/Killaloe water and sewerage services are already taxed to the limit, although upgrades are planned.

The 'Shoreline' plan was launched with great fanfare this week. Local politicians were invited to a private viewing, and local and national media were invited to lunch, with boat trips and helicopter rides included.

The development was described as one of the biggest investments on the river Shannon and according to Eclipse Developments it will generate 70 jobs when completed, and 120 jobs during the two-year construction period.

"It is expected that the development would positively impact on visitor numbers to the region and would provide a welcome boost to the local economy," a spokesperson said.

"The developers plan to build a world-class marina with top of the range services including marine supplies, telecommunications and wi-fi. Vibrant new public spaces and public services are at the heart of the scheme and Shoreline will extend the tourist season in the Shannon region.

If the plans are approved by North Tipperary County Council, Shoreline will incorporate the marina, 1.5k of public walkways and a plaza with restaurants, cafes and shops.

Particular emphasis is placed on the functioning and accessibility of the marina throughout the daytime and into the evening with high quality creative lighting throughout.

- By Patricia Feehily