MORE than 800 businesses across Hambleton district are being given the chance to have their say over the future growth of the area's £1.5bn economy.

Company bosses are being canvassed for their opinions and suggestions in a survey of every business being carried out by Hambleton District Council.

Officers from the authority will be visiting industrial estates to talk to owners and managers about their plans for the future, and where they may need support and help to attract investment.

Surveys are also being sent to 800 businesses, from those with hundreds of employees to many one person operations, and covering all sectors.

“As a council we want to understand how our business leaders feel about the district, and learn more about their future growth plans,” said deputy leader of the council, Councillor Peter Wilkinson.

“There will be constraints and challenges facing them in achieving this growth, but we know there is development potential that could be unlocked.

“Hambleton District Council is committed to growing the economy of the district and the review of industrial estates will enable us to better understand better the issues which enable businesses to reach their potential."

The council has already agreed to plough £5m into growth over the next ten years through its economic strategy.

The survey will run from October 12 until December 11. For more information go to hambleton.gov.uk/business or contact the council’s Business and Economy Team on 01609 767058 or email philip.bramhall@hambleton.gov.uk.