A traffic system is to be introduce in Whitby to cope with the town's growing popularity as a tourist centre.

One of the main changes will be to restrict the flow of traffic on St Anne's Staith, Haggersgate, Pier Road and Khyber Pass.

It aims to reduce conflict between pedestrians and vehicles and to improve safety and the environment of the popular harbourside area.

Stephen Knight, who is the head of committee services at North Yorkshire County Council, said in a report to its executive that 81 per cent of the 124 people responded to a proposal to restrict traffic using the roads between 10.30am and 4.30pm, with exemptions for loading and unloading, permit holders and buses.

"It was suggested by the Yorkshire Coast and Moors county area committee that the scheme should not be introduced until the park and ride facility is set up on Guisborough Road, Whitby," he said.

However members said the traffic management project should be implemented "as early as possible".

In the meantime, work is to be carried out for pedestrians at the entrance to St Anne's Staith.

Mr Knight said it should reduce the flow of traffic along the seafront route.

"It is intended that a bollard which can be raised and lowered electronically will be installed to control traffic entering the area," he said.

In addition, proposals are to be investigated to improve traffic circulation in New Quay Road.

The area committee has agreed to bring in a one-way traffic system on Hudson Street and John Street, Whitby.

Plans to introduce a one-way system for Belle Vue Terrace and a two way arrangement in Crescent Place have been shelved.