A Devon-based project to set a new world sailing record could be over before it even starts if the council refuses planning application.

The project to build a £1m trimaran at a visitor centre on Teignmouth seafront is running behind schedule. If councillors refuse to give the project the 9-month extension it needs it will be forced to close.

33-year-old Simon Chalk wants to be the first person to sail a multi-hulled yacht round the world against prevailing winds and currents. He won planning permission to build his 61m (200ft) yacht in a seafront building last year. However, permission runs out at the end of the month, and the boat will not be ready until March. Mr Chalk has said that he will appeal if he is not granted an extension.