CONTROVERSIAL plans for a multi-million pound marina redevelopment have been dropped because of resentment to the scheme.

Mounting opposition to the proposals for Whitby Marina have led to the Evans Property Group, of Leeds, withdrawing its plans.

While local authority leaders have expressed disappointment at the decision, they admit it did not come as a total surprise.

Now, they are considering carrying out smaller improvements to the area, close to the spot where explorer Captain James Cook's famous ships were built 250 years ago.

The £20m multi-use development would have seen homes, shops, a restaurant and bars created along with better facilities for yachtsmen and workshops.

The Evans group was appointed as the preferred developer five years ago and after carrying out consultations, felt it had a scheme which enjoyed broad support.

Managing director John Bell said: "We have done our utmost to take on board the views and ideas of local people when drawing up plans.

"However, with the highly vocal opposition of those who appear to be against development of any kind in this area of the town we feel unable to proceed."

Scarborough Borough Council's chief executive, John Trebble, said the decision meant Whitby had lost an opportunity which could have brought additional jobs and further prosperity to the town and given the marina the most up-to-date facilities.

He said they would now be looking at a basic scheme to improve security, shower and toilet facilities and possibly some environmental works.

The council leader, Councillor Eileen Bosomworth, said no blame could be attached to the developers for their decision.

"Any other developer probably would have withdrawn their interest a long time ago in view of the difficulties and, at times, abuse, they have faced," she said.