UP to 1,000 new building jobs could be created in York each year for the next 15 years with the building of 22,000 new homes, but a lack of major skills could stop York people taking advantage of the opportunities, according to figures presented to City of York Council's cabinet this week.

A special task group was set up in July last year to look at the issue, and reported its findings to the council cabinet on Tuesday.

Although the construction boom could help York's economic recovery, employers said they struggle to recruit enough skilled people in York, either in practical jobs or commercial or sales positions, the report said.

The industry has particular problems recruiting women, either into office based jobs or elsewhere, it added.

Cllr Joe Watt, who led the task group, said the council needs to act fast to make sure people in York can take advantage of the new job opportunities.

The cabinet agreed to support YorCity Construction network as it works with builders and training centres to get more York people trained in construction skills.