PLANS have been unveiled for a £2.5m overhaul of a harbour to boost trade and tourism.

The proposals for Whitby Harbour have been drawn up by a working group of local stakeholders and councillors.

They want to see better berthing for yachts, with the pontoons improved and new ones created.

There would also be better onsite access, including provision for disabled users.

Other proposals include improved on-shore facilities, such as a water resource centre with public toilets, and a marina.

The provision of workspace accommodation is also being considered with the aim of creating jobs.

There would be improved parking, with better layout and management of the area to maximise the number of spaces.

Better facilities for boat owners to be able to drop off and pick up equipment would also be created.

A riverside walkway linking the town to the harbour side is part of the proposals, as well as landscaping around the harbour, including pieces of public art.

The proposals will be discussed by Scarborough Borough Council on Tuesday, before going on display in Whitby tourist information centre from July 15 to 31. Residents and visitors will be able to have their say on the plans.

Following the consultation, a report will be submitted to the borough council's cabinet outlining the next steps, including means for funding the proposals.

A council spokeswoman said the money would probably come from a combination of private and public investment.

Whitby town councillor, Michael Craven-Moulder, who is the chairman of the Whitby Harbour Improvement Working Group, said: "Much discussion and research has gone into these proposals and I am confident that we now have a proposition that will successfully marry together the wishes of the many different groups involved.

"Whitby is not only a working harbour, but also a major attraction that is much loved by local people.

"I would urge everyone to visit the tourist information centre to see for themselves what we are proposing so that they can too play a part in what promises to be a very exciting development for Whitby."