THE Chamber of Commerce has voiced its disappointment over news that York's Local Plan has been stalled.

The Local Plan, which is set to shape the future of York for the next 20 years, has been pushed back after political shifts in City of York Council, with Labour finding itself in minority control.

The York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce has hit out at the need for a plan to enable "responsible and sustainable future development", regardless of party politics.

Eamonn Keogh, chairman of the Chamber York Property Forum said: "The city needs to have the framework in place to capitalise on future growth opportunities and support development that will attract investment and business growth and create employment opportunities for the city’s young people.

"We can promote our skilled workforce and strengths in science and technology, but these will be overshadowed by a cautious attitude to development and a lack of employment sites, housing and new infrastructure without a Local Plan in place.

"Successful cities are open to change and it is clear that York has to build on its successes as opposed to stand still and admire what is now.

"The lack of a coherent strategy for the future development and growth of the city creates uncertainty that will deter inward investors and inhibit the growth of the economy at a time when it is vital to attract inward investment to maintain growth which is vital to the continued prosperity of the city."