It is claimed a marina is key to the resort's regeneration

Bridlington Harbour Commissioners decided on Wednesday not to back council plans for a 500-berth marina.

Instead commissioners, who look after the resort's harbour, voted to pursue their own smaller scale development.

East Riding councillors now plan to speak to government officials in an attempt to find a way forward.

The decision not to back the council scheme follows months of rows between the two sides.

There are simply not 500 yachts waiting to come into a new marina at Bridlington Mike Stathers, commissioners' spokesman

Crucially, government officials have told the council it must work in partnership with the town's harbour board for its marina scheme to be successful.

Stephen Parnaby, leader of the council, reacted angrily to the decision, accusing the commissioners of "standing in the way of the town's progression".

"The people and businesses of Bridlington have spoken loud and clear that they want a marina," he said.

"The commissioners have turned down an offer to invest millions in the harbour, which would have brought significant levels of private sector interest and development.

"This would have given the town employment and business growth opportunities. We cannot be frustrated in this."

Mike Stathers, a spokesman for the commissioners who make up the harbour board, said the regeneration of the town was the authority's responsibility.

Feasibility study

"The commissioners want to be responsible for the regeneration of their estate, which is the harbour itself.

"They are taking full responsibility to prepare plans and implement those plans for regeneration over the next few years."

The commissioners raised doubts about long-term viability of the authority's plan, claiming it was too ambitious.

Mr Stathers added: "There are simply not 500 yachts waiting to come into a new marina at Bridlington.

"The commissioners are of the opinion that 200 yachts would be a more realistic figure and that would be the basis for their plans."