BUSINESSES in North Yorkshire are being given easier access to information.

A new local access point for Hambleton residents interested in starting up a business has been opened in Northallerton.

In a joint venture with Business Link, the district council has created the access point at its Civic Centre headquarters.

It is the latest in a series of access points across the county, with computers linking users to a wide range of information from across the district.

Details on everything from company law and finance to how to write a business plan and obtain export advice will be available.

Mick Jewitt, Head of Economic Development and Planning Policy, said: "Local people wanting to set up their own business can have free use of this terminal to access a wide range of information and services.

"And by having it in our main offices, they can also easily access the relevant council officers - be it for planning matters or help in finding a suitable industrial location."

Updated: 11:07 Friday, April 25, 2003