New plans proposed to revitalise Whitby Fish Market

North Sea Conservation have proposed to extend and re-develop the watchtower at Whitby Fish Market – with the long-term plan to move it into public view along Pier Road.

The plans also include essential works and the creation of a new, two-storey glazed entrance, making the market attractive to residents and thousands of visitors of the town each year.

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Still well used by the fishing industry, the 80-metre-long building added a lobster hatchery and marine discovery centre in 2023.

The juvenile lobsters are used by the site to educate the public and raise additional income.

Plans have been submitted to introduce a two-storey, glazed entrance to the Fish Market (Image: Supplied)

Above this area lies a two-storey watchtower which accommodates the Harbour Master Watchkeep in the watchtower.

The area above the Watchkeep, developers say, has been left underused.

Plans include a new and higher roof to transform the “tired looking” watchtower, which will be moved from its existing location to a more prominent street position for tourists and residents alike.  

Drawings of the proposal along Pier Road (Image: Supplied)

The developer argued: “The fishing industry has been within the thriving heart of Whitby for generations.

“However, it is clear that recent decades have seen a steady decline of the inshore fishing industry along the north-east coast, and within the town.

“Despite the cultural importance has been made in the industry locally to attract a new generation of fishermen.

“It is hoped that the investment in the existing Fish Market building by the proposed development, will help to inspire young people and demonstrate that a positive future and livelihood can be found working in the fishing industry in Whitby.”

Essential repairs include the replacement of the building’s existing roof coverings, windows and doors, with a paint refresh and steel foundation repairs.

Developers are inviting members of the community to visit the Marine Discovery Centre to learn about the proposals and pose questions to the project team.

This will be held from 3pm till 7pm on Thursday (February 12).

For more information, please visit https://whitbylobsterhatchery.co.uk/.