YOUNG people are being forced out of North Yorkshire by high house prices, second-homeowners and a drop in jobs in traditional industries across the county.

This exodus of younger generations, says a new Government report out today, is leaving behind a decreasing and ageing population.

The shortage of affordable homes in the county - particularly in York, Harrogate and Selby - is highlighted in the Regional Housing Statement for Yorkshire and the Humber.

The report shows that a three-bedroomed home in Harrogate costs, on average £79,000 - twice as much as a similar property in Hull.

It also reveals that, in North Yorkshire, only 19 per cent of properties fall into council tax band A, compared to 63 per cent in South Yorkshire.

Nigel Armstrong, housing corporation regional director, said: "Our report demonstrates the challenges we face in bridging the widening gap between the poorest neighbourhoods in the region and the best.

"North Yorkshire, and in particular parts of the National Parks, face certain pressures and more investment is required in affordable homes for future generations.

"Demand for affordable homes still outstrips supply, particularly in York, Harrogate and Selby." The predicted growth in over-85-year-olds and the increasing independence of the elderly are also highlighted as factors which will reshape future housing needs.

John Hocking, City of York Council assistant director for housing services, said: "We have to acknowledge York is a growing city. There has been an increase in house prices so there is an increase in demand for affordable housing.

"We have to meet that demand through our partnerships with local housing associations."

The report calls for more partnerships to tackle the shortage of affordable homes.

It points to a number of local projects as examples of best practice:

City of York Council's practice of drawing up estate agreements under negotiation with the residents' associations and public agencies that serve each estate.

Hartrigg Oaks - a community development for the elderly set up by the Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust in New Earswick, which consists of 152 bungalows, 41 bedsit rooms and a care centre, together with a shop, pool and music room.

lBishop Monkton, Harrogate, where six affordable homes have just been completed at Freedom's Mill, exclusively for local people in a project involving Harrogate Council.