How council could help people in city

From: Coun Claire Douglas, Labour opposition spokesperson for economy, City of York Council.

YORK’S economy has taken a knock. But our city is resilient, with a vibrant independent retail sector, a skilled workforce and extraordinary levels of community and voluntary endeavour.

We now need the city council to demonstrate the leadership and sense of purpose that’s vital to building a better York.

This is an opportunity to work with businesses and residents to create a cleaner, more inclusive and collaborative economy. A more liveable city with better paid, more secure jobs, increased affordable housing and less air pollution.

Labour believes there are a few things the council can commit to now:

■ Establish a safe city pledge;

■ Offer advice to help businesses reopening;

■ Set up a restart funding scheme for businesses;

■ Agree safe use of more outdoor space:

■ Back a buy local, shop local campaign;

■ Create a comprehensive, collaborative network to re-skill our workers;

■ Get everyone online for full access to education;

■ Strengthen our communities by funding local hubs to harness local volunteer capacity.

By enacting such a plan, York can pride itself on its environmental and financial sustainability. Together, we can harness the city’s innovation and creativity in technology, commerce and education to create an inclusive economy that’s able to cope with future shocks such as this.