A SCHOOL for boys with behavioural difficulties, which had prompted repeated complaints from neighbours, is set to close.

The operators of Applegate, which provides education for six youngsters from adjoining properties in Albert Road, Colne, have confirmed it will close at the end of the month.

Crunch talks were due to have taken place between Lancashire Police and the operators, Northern Care, after anti-social behaviour concerns were raised by residents.

Daily visits were being made to the home, opposite Colne Muni, by police to check there were no problems, Colne’s area committee was told.

Care bosses told officers that one problem resident, known to have made a number of appearances before the district youth court, had been moved out.

Inspector Paul Goodall, neighbourhood police inspector, said: “We will see whether this has an impact on what has been going on in the area.”

The independent special school first opened in 2005, and was given a ‘good’ rating by education watchdog Ofsted following a March 2010 inspection. Not only did the students, who could be aged 11 to 17, have lessons there, but they were also boarders.

Outside training courses and work-based placements were also offered.

Billy Grace, operations director at Northern Care, said: “The decision has been made to close Applegate, while we review our property portfolio. Following this comprehensive process, a decision will be made as to the future of the building.”

It is understood that the existing students have been found alternative placements by Northern Care, which also runs The Nook, in Knotts Lane, Colne, and other homes in Leyland, Poulton-le-Fylde, Accrington and Preston.