PENDLE MP Gordon Prentice is backing the decision to build a new state-of-the-art health facility in Colne.

Earlier this week, East Lancashire NHS bosses announced they have moved a step closer to buying the fomer Kwik Save site in Craddock Street.

Now Mr Prentice has expressed his relief at the news and urged Pendle Council chiefs to ensure work is started on the development soone. He said: “The decision to site the new facility next to Colne bus station and very close to the town centre must be the right one.

“This £10 million investment will be a significant boost to improving the health of the people of Colne and West Craven, and will be another major addition to the town following the SureStart Children’s Centre building opened last year.

“The new facility will need planning permission and I hope there will be no delays. I want Pendle Council to pull out all the stops.

“It is essential the proposed launch date of early 2011 is achieved.”