Preston Council is preparing to apply to the North West Development Agency for £235,000 to fund a feasibility study into the project.

It is understood preferred locations for the weir would be at the Ribble Link, or near the city centre.

This follows a failed application to the Big Lottery Living Landmarks Fund for the same project last year.

News of the fresh bid was attacked by members of the Save The Ribble campaign, who oppose the weir, saying it would damage an internationally-important wetland eco-system.

Member Jane Brunning said: "In making this decision Preston Council is ignoring the advice of the Environment Agency, the RSPB and other organisations, and the opposition of local residents, some councillors and neighbouring councils.

"The decision makes a mockery of Preston Council's repeated assertions that the barrage scheme is 'ideas' only and reveals their true intention to pursue it at all costs."

It is anticipated the bid will be made during 2008/9. The barrage, which would help maintain a constant water level for recreation, is part of the £800m Riverworks project which would also bring jobs, homes, offices, shops and a central park.

Chief executive of Preston Council Jim Carr said: "The river is currently inaccessible but could be a real asset, like it is in Chester, for example. However, the last thing we would want to do is damage the environment."