Traffic congestion is the main concern of Bradford business bosses, according to a new survey.

An increasing number of businesses across the district have cited the impact on their operations of clogged roads in the Bradford Chamber of Commerce annual survey of business priorities.

Congestion has overtaken the city’s image and regeneration efforts, which were previously the top two issues and where company bosses feel that progress has been made.

Worries about crime levels have also lessened, along with concerns over planning and land use issues.

Skills shortages and the availability of finding local training providers remain high on the shopping list ‘for a substantial proportion of respondents, while nearly half want to see more done to help manufacturers.

The survey showed the main barriers to growth and better performance are confidence, cashflow and late payment, while nationally energy costs, exchange rates and taxation levels are the top three issues.

Paul Mackie, chamber president, said: “The priorities survey continues to provide a good insight into the issues concerning Bradford businesses, both local and national ones.

“The survey complements the other research we do, such as on the economy or with our national body, and also augments our frequent discussions that we have face-to-face with members to support policy development.

“I’d like to thank those businesses that have taken part in this valuable fact-finding exercise. We will be conveying the findings to Bradford Council.

Meanwhile, another study says that levels of rush hour traffic is making more people choose to work from home in Yorkshire.

The survey by conference call company PowWowNow revealed that Yorkshire is second only to London for people being more likely to work remotely.

Two years ago, the Leeds-Bradford conurbation was in the top ten most congested areas in Europe with a rate of 28 per cent congestion.

PowWowNow found that in Yorkshire 48 per cent of respondents already worked for a company that allowed remote or flexible working, 78 per cent of which said that members of their managerial team are available remotely.

More than 20 per cent said they chose home working to avoid commuting, 30 per cent due to domestic commitments and 21 per cent because of being able to choose their working hours.

Jacqui Keep, PowWowNow senior marketing executive, said: “Due to recent influx of young professionals relocating to northern cities, Yorkshire and The Humber is currently ranking among the most congested areas in Europe. So it comes as no surprise that remote working is on the rise, as people seek to avoid the traffic.

“With fewer distractions, reduced commuting stress and the chance to take control over work-life balance, there is no reason why more office-based firms shouldn’t approach flexible working in this fashion.”