The development company selected by Scarborough Borough Council as its partner for the multi-million pound re-development of Whitby Marina yesterday had its exclusivity period extended by two years.

Evans of Leeds, an international development company, was given the extension to enable it to come forward with ideas for the site which has been at the centre of long-running negotiations and wrangles after original schemes were rejected.

Derek Rowell, director of technical services, told Scarborough council's cabinet that work was under way on hydrological investigations for an extension of the marina, costings, traffic and future use of Endeavour Wharf.

He said: "Evans has continued to strive to meet its obligations under the exclusivity agreement. It has committed substantial resources towards the schemes."

He said Evans' continued interest in re-developing the marina was to be welcomed.