THE Royal Yachting Association is hoping to set sail from its land-locked Eastleigh base and head for a new home by the shores of the River Hamble by spring 2003.

That is the target the RYA has set after applying for planning permission to develop a new national headquarters at the internationally famous yachting mecca.

After 13 years at its current Eastleigh base the RYA wants to move into a bigger base.

It was in November 1987 that the association, which is the national authority for sailing, powerboating and windsurfing, moved from Woking into the 9,500 sq ft Victorian building in Romsey Road.

A year later the Princess Royal, as association president, officially opened the Romsey Road nerve centre after the building was given a major facelift costing £180,000.

But the building has become inadequate for the association's fast-growing needs. Recent staff increases means that it now has a workforce of almost 100.

That is why the RYA is keen to sell its old building and move to Compass Point - a new purpose-built office and warehouse close by the River Hamble.

RYA chief executive Rod Carr said: "We need to move forward as an organisation. This new facility will provide an excellent, modern and efficient working environment for the RYA team. There is an increasing expectation on the RYA to provide world class sports administration to the boating public at large as well as a range of modern, efficient services to over 2,500 clubs, classes and teaching establishments in addition to 93,000 personal members.

"This new facility will allow us to meet their expectations now and in the future."

He added: "Staff retention is an important consideration in our decision to stay within Eastleigh Borough. We have also decided to develop and purchase our own building as opposed to renting existing premises as this option offered the best value in the long term."