A GROUP examining the economic viability of Bedale as a market town is to consider its findings in a final report.

The environment and economy scrutiny committee of Hambleton District Council has been reviewing council policies on market towns and trying to identify options for improving viability, with specific reference to Bedale.

Four meetings have been held about the town covering a range of issues. They included empty commercial properties and vacant flats above shops, the impact of planning policies, commercial rent levels and rateable values, areas which could be redeveloped to make more shopping space and operation of the weekly market.

Evidence has been taken from representatives of the Leeming Bar industrial estate forum, the enterprise agency Business Solutions Bedale, the town council, Aiskew Parish Council, a developers' agent and the Hambleton cabinet spokesman on economic development.

Committee members have now been asked to review the evidence and consider a draft final report.