Handmade timber boat-building will be “preserved for generations to come” if plans for a new workshop at Faversham Creek are given the green light, it is claimed.

Long-running town firm Hollowshore Moorings wants to buck the trend of its declining industry and invest in boosting its facilities.

Dan Tester, who runs the creekside business, has launched a bid to build a new boathouse - a move he believes will secure the future of the historic business and his profession.

He said: “We have seen such a decline in the industry.

“Other boatyards have closed due to a shortage of specialist craftsmen and a lack of take-up from younger generations.

“Unfortunately, this is partly due to the problematic nature of securing a traditional-style apprenticeship and a yard that would have the money to fund the training of the next generation.

“As a consequence, we have seen the traditional boatyards close and be redeveloped with the traditional skills dying out.”

The plan is for Dan’s son, the third generation boat builder of the family, to develop “what are now very rare skills” and keep the company thriving for decades to come.

In addition to making boats, Hollowshore carries out repairs and services to existing vessels, such as Thames barges.

With many other yards closing - and there being no similar businesses in Essex - numerous boats are brought up the Swale from far and wide for their annual checks.

Due to the increased demand for the firm’s specialist services, the client waiting list is piling high.

The timber-clad workshop is earmarked for a satellite yard 300 metres from Hollowshore’s main base next to the Shipwright’s Arms, at a satellite yard further along the creek.

The plot is currently used for servicing, but working conditions are tough due to an absence of overhead cover on the water’s edge.

Planning documents lodged with Swale Borough Council state: “The need for development on this site is therefore required to provide the basic minimum welfare and fit-for-purpose working conditions a worker should have access to in the 21st century.

“This is a unique opportunity to assist specialist boat builders in ensuring the craft is preserved and passed on to generations to come.”

Planning agents say the scheme will “enhance” the landscape, as the single-storey structure will replace containers and a caravan which are currently on the site.

Faversham Town Council has backed the bid, citing how the “regeneration” of the creekside site will be a benefit to the area.

Due to the application site falling within the Swale Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a host of other protected boundaries, Natural England has requested further information be submitted on how the scheme will impact the environment.