PLANS by Ribble Valley Council to grab land from neighbouring authorities to stave off the boundary threat from the North West Regional Assembly have moved a step closer.

The controversial measure was discussed at the council's first extraordinary meeting and emergency debate for nearly a decade.

Concerned residents packed in to the Wednesday night meeting to hear councillors agree that a merger with Hyndburn, or land grab from neighbouring authorities, was the best way of staving off extinction.

Under plans for the assembly, small authorities like Ribble Valley could face the chop and council leader, Chris Holtom, called the meeting to discuss a line of attack.

Coun Holtom told the meeting: "This is one of the most important meetings we have ever had. Next year, local voters will be asked if they want a regional assembly and, if so, what kind of local government they want.

"Failure to put forward options is a dreadfully high-risk strategy. I do not want change and will be campaigning for a no vote, but that's only part of the story. We have no choice but to put forward options should the regional assembly get the go-ahead."

Councillors voted by 19 to 7 to put forward proposals for an enhanced Ribble Valley or Hyndburn merger to the boundary committee by the September 8 deadline.

Coun Holtom claimed an enhanced Ribble Valley Unitary Authority taking in chunks of neighbouring boroughs would be popular with voters.