In response to a freedom of information request the Council has revealed that the value of its property portfolio totals £591,959,577 or about £7000 for each York Council taxpayer.

The value of property currently not in use –and in most cases awaiting disposal – is £9.1m.

Of the £592m about £260m represents the value of the Council Housing stock.

The 10 highest value Council houses range from £250,000 to £400,000. They are currently let at a rental of between £93 and £114 a week.