ONCE again the magnet that is York looks set to attract more jobs.

We were expecting to hear confirmation today that several hundred civil service jobs are coming to the city.

This latest boost shows the strength of York's diverse and vibrant economy and is a tribute to all those who work so hard to keep the city in the spotlight.

The Government was this afternoon expected to announce the employment boost at Triune House, a purpose-built office development at Monks Cross. Full details were not available until the statement in the Commons, but the Evening Press understands that Triune House is to become one of a number of regional offices for a new pensions department.

State pensions used to be run as part of the benefits agency but will now be the responsibility of a dedicated pensions service, part of which looks set to come to Monks Cross.

Many cities were in competition for these jobs and not all will be successful. York can be proud that it is considered such a prime location for new and relocated jobs, as each fresh development helps to broaden the base of the local economy.

This is a beautiful city in a fine part of the country - yet such geographical and historical advantages alone will never be enough to win new jobs.

Much credit is due to the York Inward investment Board and its chief executive, Paul Murphy.

Constant hard work is required to sell this city and the board has spent months lobbying behind the scenes to secure this new investment.

Today's expected announcement follows two previous Christmas boosts for York: the arrival of CPP in December 1998 and the siting of American firm TSYS in Fulford Road last December.

Importantly, the civil service jobs were secured because quality office space was already available. Monks Cross Partnership deserves praise for having the courage to build such offices without any guaranteed clients. Such speculation is vital in today's competitive world.

Updated: 11:02 Tuesday, December 11, 2001