North Yorkshire Council has launched an ambitious ten-year strategy designed to revitalise the harbours of Scarborough and Whitby, alongside Filey Coble Landing.
The plan, which covers the period from 2026 to 2036, seeks to transform these historic sites into safe, sustainable, and economically vibrant hubs while honouring their deep maritime roots.
The proposal arrives at a critical juncture for the Yorkshire Coast. The councils report say that the harbours have faced a period of decline attributed to ageing infrastructure, a reduction in the fishing industry, and the growing pressures of climate change. By establishing a clear roadmap, the council aims to breathe new life into the local maritime economy and provide fresh opportunities for residents and businesses.
A Shared Vision for the Future
The strategy identifies several core objectives to guide the development of these coastal assets:
- Safety and Standards: Ensuring the highest levels of service and maintaining a "safety-first" culture for all users.
- Infrastructure Investment: Upgrading deteriorating piers and wharves, such as the inner sheet steel piles at Scarborough’s West Pier and the structural integrity of Whitby’s Eskside Wharf.
- Economic Growth: Developing markets in leisure, tourism, and the renewable energy sector, including capturing a niche in the offshore wind supply chain.
- Environmental Responsibility: Working towards net-zero goals by exploring shoreside power and supporting biodiversity.
One of the flagship developments is the £10 million Whitby Maritime Hub. Expected to open in April this year, the facility is designed to support maritime training, research, and enterprise, helping to diversify the town’s economy. In Scarborough, the council is exploring the provision of a boat lift, which could enable local vessel maintenance and prevent the need for boats to travel to Bridlington or further afield.
Balancing Heritage and Innovation
The strategy aims to balance various competing needs. While the council seeks to embrace technological advances and the offshore renewables sector, it also acknowledges the frustrations of the local fishing community. The report notes that fishermen have reported a 90% decline in catches following a mass shellfish die-off event and have expressed resistance to fleet decarbonisation due to high costs and safety concerns in the North Sea.
In a statement outlining the significance of the plan, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for harbours, Cllr Mark Crane, said:
“This strategy provides a clear roadmap to secure the long-term future of our harbours through investment, innovation, and collaboration. The vision will ensure that they remain cherished destinations and engaging spaces for residents, visitors and businesses.
We want to preserve their rich maritime heritage, while promote the fishing, leisure, tourism and renewable sectors.
I would encourage people to take part in our consultation, with your views helping to shape our ten-year plan. We are taking the draft plans to committees, sharing with ward members, town councils, and harbour user groups to gather a breadth of expertise.”
How to Shape the Strategy
The Council says that community involvement is central to the development of the final plan. The council is currently hosting a public consultation to gather feedback from residents, harbour users, and businesses. This feedback will be incorporated into the final strategy, which is expected to be reported to the council’s executive in April.
The public consultation will remain open until March 22. Members of the public can review the draft plans and share their views by visiting the official website at https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/draft-harbours-strategy-consultation
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