A SCHEME to promote civic pride and community spirit in Hyndburn is set to get off the ground.

The Outer Town Initiative aims to improve the environment in the borough's outlying areas through council and private funding.

There are proposals for projects in Church, Clayton-le-Moors, Rishton, Great Harwood and Oswaldtwistle.

A council report states: "The project aims to benefit the quality of life of residents and foster civic pride by improving the environment and tackling eyesores and dereliction.

"It also aims to promote community life by assisting projects initiated by local groups and encouraging the involvement of young people."

Town hall chiefs are set to consult with businesses, residents and voluntary groups in the districts to discuss the scheme.

A total of £200,000 has been set aside and council officials hope to attract private funding to sponsor schemes.

A list of projects has already been drawn up, ranging from building facelifts to the improvement of the centre of Oswaldtwistle.

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