A NEW vision for York’s economic and retail needs will be produced as the result of a new study by City of York Council.

The new study, which will look at the city as a whole, but more specifically the role of the city centre, will build on the York Economic Strategy produced in 2011, to provide a 20-year vision for York.

The evidence gathered will also be used in the development of the city’s new Local Plan, which will outline for planning purposes the development needed in the city.

The study will be part funded by the council’s Economic Infrastructure Fund (EIF) and the Local Plan budget and a draft report will be presented for further input to the York Economic Partnership, the City Team and the Retailers Forum in the New Year. 

Coun James Alexander, leader of City of York Council, said: “This is one of the most important pieces of research in our generation. York has ambitious targets of becoming a top five UK city and a top ten mid-sized European city as set out in York’s Economic Strategy (2011-2015).

“The economic and retail visioning work will provide part of the robust evidence base needed to support York’s Local Plan. It will set out a strategy for the promotion of a competitive city centre with a diverse business base which reflects the uniqueness of York.”

Peter Kay, chair of York Economic Partnership, said: “From the business community, we know there are challenges in finding the commercial premises, getting goods and services in and out of the city and of course, for their workforce in finding places to live. This is the opportunity for business to input to the future vision of a city that is truly open for business. As such, I would encourage the local business community – and indeed businesses of all sectors and sizes – to take the time to input your views to this important milestone in the history of the city’s development.”

Stakeholders and businesses have been asked for their views on the economic and retail vision for York in a series of ‘City Conversation’ workshops and can also voice their thoughts at the Retailers Forum on November 19, Science City Network, also on November 19 and the City Team meeting on November 26.

Members of the public are also encouraged to have their say via Twitter @CityofYork or by visiting CityofYork on Facebook.

The council will work with consultants Drivers Jonas Deloitte on the report.