City of York Council's economic development chiefs have today (9 July) welcomed a report by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) putting York in the top five cities in the country.

The ranking is based on employment, population growth and skills, and puts York alongside Reading, Bristol, Southampton and Cambridge.

Roger Ranson, the council's assistant director for Economic Development, said: "We're obviously pleased that the IPPR has included York in its top five cities. The results echo the findings of the Future York report, which found that York's economy was already strong.

"However, we are certainly not resting on our laurels. We know that there are a number of key issues that need to be addressed to maintain and improve York's position both regionally and nationally. We are looking closely at the recommendations from the Future York report and will be consulting with residents over the coming months to agree a way ahead."