SCARBOROUGH Borough Council's cabinet is being recommended to approve a neighbourhood regeneration assessment in the town's Castle ward because of its social, economic and housing problems.

The ward includes the harbourside area, old fishing cottages, hotels and residentials areas.

In a report to councillors, chief executive John Trebble said that the ward is within the worst ten per cent of all council wards in England and is ranked as the most disadvantaged of any in North Yorkshire.

Unemployment figures show that 21.6 per cent of men are out of work despite the ward having employment opportunities in the town centre and the tourism businesses.

The neighbourhood assessment will focus on reducing crime and disorder, sustaining the area's economy and providing decent housing.

The assessment will also address the level of welfare benefits, child poverty, educational attainment, housing information, and unemployment.