A dry ski slope and snowboard site could be built as part of a plan to revive the Pickering area.

The idea is one of a number of projects proposed in a community investment prospectus that aims to revitalise the area's economy and create jobs.

The ski slope scheme, earmarked for either Cropton or Dalby forest, would also include a mountain bike course, and cross-country and downhill runs.

Potential partners in the scheme would include Forest Enterprise, North York Moors National Park Authority, Ryedale District Council, North Yorkshire County Council and the Pickering Area Partnership, which produced the prospectus.

Bob Clement, chairman of the partnership, said: "The area gives the impression of prosperity.

"However wages in agriculture and among self-employed people are half the national average.

"A lack of public transport means that car ownership is essential even though it takes up a disproportionate amount of income."

Other ideas in the prospectus include providing training to combat the skills shortage in the area, a five-year town plan for Pickering and the development of communication and information technology facilities.

A project to provide supported housing for homeless young people has also been put forward.