Major developments, capitalising on both new and traditional industries will be at the forefront of a new 10-year strategy to revitalise North Yorkshire’s harbours.
Scarborough and Whitby harbours and Filey Coble Landing are facing significant challenges including ageing infrastructure, the decline in the fishing industry, the impact of climate change and gaps in funding.
However, opportunities have been identified in the offshore wind industry, the tourism sector and improvements to facilities to help ensure the harbours remain viable for the future.
Executive members will be asked on Tuesday, 16 June, to approve a plan that will promote safe, sustainable and economically viable harbours.
Cllr Mark Crane, said: “While celebrating their rich maritime heritage, we will ensure that our harbours remain cherished and dynamic destinations for generations to come.
“We have listened to responses to the public consultation and taken the draft plans to committees, sharing with ward members, town councils, and harbour user groups to gather a breadth of expertise.”
Among the opportunities that the harbours strategy is looking to build on is the offshore wind industry.
The Government has said that the UK is the second largest offshore wind market in the world. Major wind farms are located off the Yorkshire coast including at Dogger Bank, and the county’s coastal towns have the potential to help support the industry.
The strategy will consider new developments including the £10 million Whitby Maritime Hub which is under construction and nearing completion.
The development is aimed at establishing Whitby as a key player in the maritime and offshore renewable energy sectors.
It is set to build on the town’s proud maritime heritage with a dedicated centre on Endeavour Wharf to provide a greater breadth of careers in the historic port.
Scarborough’s West Pier is set for major regeneration to secure the long term future of the harbour as a safe, resilient and fully functioning working port. Decades of exposure to harsh marine conditions mean routine maintenance is no longer enough, and investment is now essential to protect this vital piece of infrastructure while respecting its historic character.
The scheme has been shaped by feedback from harbour users and the local community. Improvements will enhance safety, accessibility and the public realm, support tourism and marine activity while delivering long term value for money.
The project forms a key part of wider regeneration ambitions for Scarborough through the Government’s Towns Fund.
The report can be viewed or downloaded as a PDF here.
The hugely valuable visitor economy is also seen as a key factor in supporting North Yorkshire’s harbours.
Tourism in Scarborough alone generates nearly £580 million each year and contributes to North Yorkshire’s visitor economy which is worth more than £4 billion annually.
The aim of the strategy is for harbours to be resilient to future challenges, open and welcoming by offering accessible and engaging spaces for users, residents, visitors and businesses.
