A COUNCIL has been set the task of securing more funding for a rival town after signing a three-year deal to run regeneration in a neighbouring borough.

The leader of Hyndburn Council, Peter Britcliffe, and Blackburn with Darwen Council leader Kate Hollern, met earlier this week to sign the unique deal.

Blackburn with Darwen first began running regeneration in Hyndburn last October after the Accrington-based authority began looking for savings to help clear debt.

Under the deal, Blackburn with Darwen provides regeneration consultancy helping to push forward various council functions including economic development, community safety and housing market renewal.

But a key task will be helping to find external cash to help regenerate Accrington town centre, something Blackburn with Darwen has been very good at getting for its own centres.

Coun Britcliffe said: "This was a new approach for both councils when we began the initial six months agreement but it has already demonstrated that partnership works very well for each of us."

Coun Hollern said: "It makes sense for Blackburn with Darwen and Hyndburn councils to share expertise in regeneration across our neighbouring boroughs. We can learn from each other and make efficiency savings at the same time."

A total of £60million will be spent on housing market renewal in the two boroughs over the next two years while the two authorities will also be working together to campaign for the widening of the M6 and the creation of more jobs at Whitebirk.

The deal with Blackburn with Darwen was set up Hyndburn initially following the departure of former director of regeneration Nigel Rix, who agreed a settlement with the council as part of the cost-cutting exercise.

Blackburn has benefited from millions of pounds of government money, while Hyndburn has struggled.