Sir Ron Cooke will chair Without Walls, York’s Local Strategic Partnership.

Professor Cooke was Vice-Chancellor of the University of York from 1993 to 2002 and was granted an Honorary Freemanship of the city in 2003.

Sir Ron said that he relishes the prospect of leading the review into how York might develop in the future. 

He said: “York is a small town on the edge of Europe in a rapidly globalising economy.  In so far as it is possible for the city to determine its future, what future does it want?” 

2007 will be a significant year for the Without Walls Partnership as it plans to update the city’s long term vision and Community Strategy. 

Sir Ron also welcomed the publication of the Future York Group's report earlier this week, on behalf of the Without Walls group.

He said: “This strategic review of York's economy highlights many of the economic opportunities and challenges facing the city. It will be a most valuable contribution to the preparation of the city's next strategic plan in the coming year. All its recommendations will be given careful consideration by the partnership.”