BIG changes are needed at two harbours hit by the decline in the fishing industry, a report says.

The Seafish Industry Authority (SFA) says a rethink is needed on Scarborough and Whitby's ports, in North Yorkshire, and the industry must consolidate, rationalise and diversify to survive.

The authority, which was brought in by Scarborough Borough Council to carry out an appraisal, says: "There is an imbalance between fish landings and harbour-side infrastructure at the ports that reflects an industry going through a significant transition of repadjustment."

In its report to the council's economic scrutiny committee, it says whitefish landings have declined considerably in the past decade but shellfish landings have risen, as fishermen switch to non-quota species such as crab and lobsters.

However, the fishing industry still makes a significant contribution to the economy of both towns, particularly in Whitby, where 2.3 per cent of the working population are involved.

The harbours, which date back several centuries - Scarborough celebrated its 750th anniversary last year - not only provide employment and a social contribution to the towns, but are also a valuable asset to the tourist industry, the report says.

Whitby has 62 registered fishing boats, but some operate out of ports such as Peterhead, leaving only about nine active whitefish trawlers, compared with 22 three years ago. There are 20 vessels landing shellfish.

At Scarborough, there are 35 registered boats, although not all are actively fishing.