A PLAN which aims to place Hambleton as a top place for business has been approved by district councillors.

Hambleton District Council’s Inward Investment Strategy aims to attract high quality jobs to the district by looking at it’s unique selling qualities and how they can be recognised nationally. The initial focus will be on potential employment sites around Leeming Bar.

The plan will look at the land, skills, support and opportunity the area has to offer investors, ensure a sufficient supply of good quality sites over the next five years, and encourage links between existing and potential new businesses in the area. It will also promote the creations of centres of excellence in some sectors.

Coun Peter Wilkinson, deputy council leader, said: "This strategy will help us attract high quality jobs for local people – particularly for graduates and apprentices, improve the current infrastructure and grow the existing network of businesses.

"It will also market Hambleton for investors – we want to see the district recognised nationally as a place to do business and invest in."