THE key role York plays in developing the economy of the wider region will be examined at a meeting next week.

The gathering, on Monday, provides an opportunity for representatives from the regional development agency, Yorkshire Forward, to answer questions about the way it supports the region's five key cities - York Bradford, Hull, Leeds, and Sheffield.

Each of the cities is seen as vital in developing the region's economic competitiveness, providing new jobs and acting as centres of investment.

This review, part of the Yorkshire and Humber Assembly's "scrutiny" role required by Government to ensure money spent on economic development is well targeted, will examine how effectively the cities are being used as "drivers" of economic growth in the region.

The cities' crucial role has been identified as a priority in the Regional Economic Strategy (RES), developed by Yorkshire Forward in consultation with partners across the region.

At Monday's meeting, at 12.30pm at the assembly's offices in Wakefield, members of the assembly's scrutiny panel will ask representatives from Yorkshire Forward how they are supporting the growth of each of the cities to benefit the region as a whole.

"The importance of key cities to a region's economy and competitiveness is increasingly being recognised," explained Yorkshire Culture chief executive and assembly member Gary Topp, who is chairing the review.

"At the meeting, we will be looking at the role Yorkshire Forward is playing in supporting the development of the five cities.''

Witnesses from each of the five cities, along with ones from other towns in the region and from the education sector, have already given evidence to an earlier hearing.

A formal report, with any recommendations, will be produced by the assembly early next year.

Members of the public are welcome to observe the meeting. Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Call Hannah Howe at the assembly on 01924 331585 to register.

Updated: 10:02 Thursday, December 11, 2003