BURNLEY Council is in the running for a top award just months after the town was named the most enterprising in the UK by the Government.

The Local Government Chronicle has nominated the authority for its Driving Growth Award in recognition of ‘the impact the council’s initiatives are having on the local economy’.

AMS Neve managing director Mark Crabtree, who picked up an OBE in the New Year’s Honours, said being shortlisted was proof that Burnley was changing ‘out of all recognition’.

The awards’ organisers received a record 660 submissions from more then 200 organisations.

Judges praised the council for its ambition and for its ‘positive working relationships with local businesses’.

Burnley was named the most enterprising area of the UK by the Government in August.

It capped a memorable year with work starting on the Burnley Bridge business park and the opening of East Lancashire’s first university technology college at the former Victoria Mill.

Council Leader Julie Cooper said: “I’m delighted Burnley Council has been shortlisted for this major award.

“The council is committed to securing economic growth for Burnley and plays a major role in developing the right infrastructure and environment in which our businesses can thrive.

Mr Crabtree said: “Burnley is changing out of all recognition and intends to build on its winning formula.

“The council’s relation-ship with local business leaders has generated a dramatic culture change.

“The council’s ambition to develop the town’s high-quality manufacturing base, to realise major infrastructure projects and create a business-friendly environment is embedded in its organisational culture and long may it continue.”

Burnley business leaders are working with the council on a major event in London in April.