Bradford businesses have reported a welcome period of relative stability following months of fluctuating fortunes, a survey of the district's firms revealed today.

The study, by the Bradford Chamber of Commerce, has led to hopes that the city's economic fortunes could be entering a period of consolidation.

Chamber members reported that home sales and orders remained stable for both manufacturers and those in the service sector, in contrast to dramatic fluctuations in recent months.

The survey, for the quarter from April to June also indicated a positive mood among exporters. Despite concerns over exchange rates, most were happy to see sales and orders increase in manufacturing - although, in the service sector, there was some concern about a downturn. The chamber tracks trends by asking its 1,100 members about sales and investment levels and what external factors are most affecting company performance. It also emerged that more companies have been attempting to recruit than earlier in the year, and that, with those recruiting, there have been fewer difficulties finding suitable staff.

Chamber president John Pennington said the results were generally positive, while still containing some elements of concern.

"It is a relief to know that companies are not necessarily lurching from one obstacle to another and that, in areas such as investment and the labour market, there are some good indicators," he said, "That's not to say everything is rosy in the garden. Financial constraints and external factors like exchange rates are still giving many companies food for thought.

"The survey is a useful tool to provide important information to decision-makers at all levels."

Manufacturers highlighted corporation tax as a major concern.

Chamber chief executive Sandy Needham said: "Nationally, we have seen interest rates come down again since the survey was carried out and the Bank of England has sent out warnings about deflation.

"Locally, we know that we can make the business support structure even stronger and, through partnership working, make Bradford a stronger place in which to invest."