THE £10m scheme to build a heritage centre to celebrate the life of Captain James Cook has been given the go-ahead by a town council.

The development is planned at Whitby's upper harbour, close to the spot where Cook's famous ships were built.

The venture by the James Cook RN Charity Trust also plans to create workshops for traditional boat builders.

Councillor Florrie Roach, of Whitby Town Council, said "It is a marvellous plan for a wonderful building."

The final decision on the scheme is to be made by Scarborough Borough Council.