Trevor Mitchell, 48, is originally from Birmingham but considers himself a naturalised Yorkshireman, having worked for English Heritage in the county for 20 years.

Mr Mitchell said that he recognised and valued the historical significance of Scarborough, and said that work was already under way to protect, preserve and restore many buildings and sites of interest in the area.

"We've been involved with St Martin on the Hill church helping them with repair grants for their wonderful stained glass windows," he said.

"We're also concerned about the Ayton Castle tower in West Ayton. It's 700 years old and a real landmark in the area. We've been helping the council to appeal for funding and we're hoping public access will be allowed in the future."

In the Scarborough and Ryedale area there are 3,994 listed buildings, and more than 1,000 scheduled monuments.

Mr Mitchell added: "North Yorkshire's historic places are priceless assets, and Scarborough and Ryedale are the richest places for archaeology in the county with some sites between 3,000 and 4,000 years old.

"Scarborough has a fantastic collection of Victorian buildings and when I think of the town I always think of the Grand Hotel which I see as a symbol of how prosperous the town was. The town centre will always be a priority for me.

"We all want to live in places that have local distinctiveness and enjoy a high quality of life. That's what historic landscapes, neighbourhoods and streetscapes can deliver, building on our strengths and identity.

"Rather than being an obstacle to development they should be at its core."