WORK has started on a £330,000 Community Enterprise Centre in South West Burnley.

The purpose-built facility off Valley Street will provide projects aimed at creating jobs, businesses and training opportunities for local people.

The centre will also bring schemes for families and small groups of children and young people in a user-friendly environment.

Cash backing for the project has come from Burnley Council's Challenge Fund, with £196,000; English Partnerships with a £17,500 grant and £119,000 from the European Regional Development Fund.

The centre will be owned and managed by South West Burnley Community Enterprises Ltd., in partnership with South West Burnley Development Trust.

Burnley council leader Stuart Caddy, chairman of the Regeneration Management Committee, said: "Burnley's Challenge Fund continues to work together with local communities to provide much needed facilities and services.

"We look forward to the centre being well used by local people and playing an important role in improving training, education and business support in the area."

He said the centre would also offer small starter units for local people to set up their own businesses as well as providing many other facilities for people in need.

Chris Keene, South West Burnley Enterprise secretary, said: "It is an exciting and rewarding day for all the many local groups and individuals who have worked so hard to turn a dream into a reality.

"This building will be a focus for community economic development activity in South West Burnley, helping to bring jobs and prosperity for the residents of the area."

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