Traffic congestion problems in Whitby caused by the town's growing popularity as a tourist centre, are to be tackled in a scheme to provide more parking and improve vehicle management.

With the arrival of the replica of Captain James Cook's ship, Endeavour, next month, for much of the summer season, the traffic chaos is expected to increase and emergency overflow car parks are being set up at Tucker's Field and in fields near Whitby Abbey, with shuttle buses being laid on to carry tourists into the town centre.

North Yorkshire County Council has appointed consultants to produce traffic management strategies over the next five to ten years, said Chris Millns, a senior officer in the environmental services directorate.

He said a group had been set up comprising representatives of local authorities and various organisations in Whitby, to explore ways of solving the problem.

"The traffic problems in Whitby and on the approach roads to the town are a major cause for concern and they need to be tackled in a comprehensive way," said Mr Millns.

Ideas include better facilities for pedestrians, cyclists and public transport users he said. A big park and ride scheme at Cross Butts on the edge of the town is also a possibility.

An exhibition is to be staged later this summer, when the public will be able to put forward their views, said Mr Millns.