A £1.5M scheme to improve coastal defences, which has seen tonnes of Norwegian rock imported to the region, is officially opened today.

The year-long scheme to shore up the Haggerlythe area of Whitby, North Yorkshire, aims to protect the area from coastal erosion and instability for at least 50 years.

Rock armour imported from Norway was placed at the foot of the cliff and deep piling work carried out to stabilise the ground.

It has also created a new causeway link to the East Pier to replace the old access bridge, known as the Spa Ladder.

The area had a history of cliff erosion problems and the work will protect Henrietta Street properties and the headland.

Scarborough Borough Council's environment spokesman, Godfrey Allanson, said: "I am delighted that this vital piece of coast protection work has now been completed and this tremendously valuable piece of Whitby has been safeguarded.

"It is a tribute to those carrying out the work that they have managed to complete the work through the wettest winter since records began."