A NEW service is being launched for businesses looking to relocate in North Yorkshire.

A property database has been compiled by the York, North Yorkshire and East Riding Enterprise Partnership in a bid to help businesses looking to expand or move their premises.

Barry Dodd, chairman of the partnership, said: "Previously, searching available business premises was a bit hit and miss.

"Some Councils provided databases for their area, in others you had to trawl round the commercial agents.

“Through our unique position working across public and private sectors, we’ve established a comprehensive listing covering all the commercial estate agents, and all the councils in our patch.”

The partnership's board has stressed the initiative is not just about attracting large inward investors to the area but supporting growth at all levels.

Mr Dodd added: "Our recently published Strategic Economic Plan makes it clear that we see huge potential in supporting lots of incremental growth in our established local businesses.

"By doing that we will create a more resilient economy where income is recycled locally.

“While we are speaking with Government about securing some very significant investment for the area, we can also make this a great place to grow a business through coordinating better and understanding more.

"This has always been our long term goal, and always will be, irrespective of other responsibilities coming our way.”

The database can be found on the Local Enterprise Partnership's website at www.businessinspiredgrowth.com/properties, where users can specify the type of premises they are interested in. Searches can be narrowed down by geography, size of premises and tenure, with the service is provided free of charge.