A £100,000 study has been launched into how the district’s local economy has changed since before the start of the downturn.

Hambleton District Council said it hopes the review of the 506 square mile area, which includes five market towns, by business analysts GVA will help drive forward business investment in the district over the next ten years.

The analysis will include shopper, visitor and household surveys and the views of traders to further understanding about the roles of town centres and industrial estates.

The results of the study, the first in-depth economic examination of the district since 2005, will be used to help shape a new economic strategy for the area and inform a partial review of the authority’s Local Development Framework.

The study comes as the deputy chairman of the York, North Yorkshire and East Riding Enterprise Partnership (LEP), Northallerton businessman David Kerrfoot, is setting up a task force to try and reverse a town’s fortunes following nearly 600 public sector job losses being announced in the last month.

Councillor Peter Wilkinson, the council’s deputy leader, said: “The study couldn’t be coming at a better time.

“With the recent announcements about the closure of both the Rural Payments Agency offices and the Northallerton Prison, it is more important than ever that we work to drive forward the economy of the district.

“The study, and the recommendations it will provide, will inform our economic strategy and our potential investments for the next five to ten years.

“We are working particularly closely with the local enterprise partnership to ensure our strategies are aligned.”

He said the authority’s new cabinet was committed to being a business-friendly council and by providing a robust evidence base, the study would be a useful tool for maximising any investment.

Coun Wilkinson said: “Making this work relevant to the needs of local business is our top priority.”

He urged businesses to support the process by offering their opinions. He said: “We want to involve a wide range of local businesses from high street retailers through to large manufacturing companies on industrial estates.

“That will mean this council, and other partners, can take actions that will ensure they remain vibrant attractive places.”

For further information, call Mark Haynes, the council’s business and community officer, on 01609 767056 or email mark.haynes@hambleton.gov.uk