THE CLA has welcomed a massive Government investment in York and North Yorkshire's economy - but said country areas must benefit as well as cities.

The land and business association was commenting following the announcement that millions of pounds are to be invested through Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) in schemes such as a 'food science campus' at Sand Hutton and a 'Bio-Hub' at the University of York, which together will create 1,300 jobs.

CLA North regional Director Dorothy Fairburn said: “It is crucial that significant funding is targeted towards rural areas in the north so the countryside can enjoy the support and economic growth experienced elsewhere – all sections of the economy must benefit from these allocations.

“There will be many smaller rural businesses waiting for this funding so they can establish, grow and increase their competitiveness. They should not be disadvantaged by having to compete with larger urban-centric businesses for what will always be a restricted funding pot.”