Planning Application Submitted for Whitby Fish Market Improvement Project: Restoring Pride and Connecting Community to Fishing Heritage

The Fish Market building is located in the heart of Whitby Harbour and is recognised as central to the local community and the interest of many who visit the town. The proposed external renovations aim to address the building’s current "tired and worn-out appearance" and make a positive contribution to Pier Road and the Conservation Area.

The core aims of the Whitby Fish Market Improvement project are to:

• Carry out a series of building maintenance works externally and internally.

• Provide improvements for all users of the building including the fishing community and Whitby Lobster Hatchery.

• Restore pride in the Fish Market building and the fishing industry in Whitby.

• Create an additional commercial area, which will cater for the office, research and welfare space required by the Whitby Lobster Hatchery and Marine Discovery Centre.

• Allow the Fish Market building to facilitate a more direct and open connection between the public and the fishing industry in Whitby.

This ambitious project stems from the aspiration of local fishermen working with a marine biologist who understands the importance of sustaining local lobster stocks and ensuring public engagement in the issue. Phase 1 of the project, the installation of the Lobster Hatchery and Marine Discovery Centre, was completed in 2023.

Community Engagement and Dialogue

We understand the importance of the Fish Market to the local community and are committed to ensuring ongoing dialogue. We previously conducted a voluntary community engagement and consultation process during the design stage, which received enthusiastic and constructive feedback.

The proposals include creating a new, open, double-height entrance off Pier Road, directly re-conceived to allow the Fish Market building to physically turn, face, and engage with its public, facilitating that direct connection between the public and the fishing industry.

We are inviting community members to visit the Marine Discovery Centre to learn about the proposals and ask questions of the project team. We want to hear from the community as we move forward with this crucial development that seeks to enhance the townscape and demonstrate a positive future for the fishing industry in Whitby. Current dates are (10th & 12th Feb @ 3 - 7 pm in the MDC) with further info to be announced so please keep an eye on Whitby Lobster Hatchery social media and website.

Support Our Vision for Whitby’s Future

The proposed works are considered likely to result in a positive enhancement of the Fish Market, Pier Road, and the wider Conservation Area. The new addition, extending the watchtower, has been designed to respond to community feedback that the building should become a landmark that proudly represents the fishing community.

This project represents essential investment in long overdue repairs and maintenance, benefiting the day-to-day users of the building, including the fishing industry, the Harbour Master Watchkeeper, and the 54° North Maritime Training Centre.

We appeal to all local residents and community groups who support the Whitby Fish Market Improvement project, its commitment to conservation, education, and the future of the town’s maritime heritage, to submit positive comments to the planning portal. By showing widespread support, we can reinforce the project's ability to support the local fishing industry and promote its place as central to future conservation, education, and research initiatives.

The planning application details can be found on the North Yorkshire Council planning portal under application reference  25/04301/FUL

https://publicaccess.northyorks.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=T6R0GPLTKD100