A PROMISE has been made that provision of schools, social services, highways and libraries will keep pace with the revitalising of neighbourhoods under East Lancashire's huge Elevate programme.

A 15-year plan, one of the largest in the country, began last month to regenerate the "collapsed" housing market in parts of Burnley, Rossendale, Hyndburn, Blackburn with Darwen and Pendle.

About half the total housing stock in the area is to be included in the scheme, which will need £1billion.

It will include general improvements, new forms of loans and demolition of some houses.

Coun Doreen Pollitt, deputy leader of Lancashire County Council, said: "The scheme is led by a consortium of East Lancashire authorities but Lancashire is clearly a key player.

"Population shifts will mean changes to provision of things such as schools and Social Services. We must ensure that provision of services in these areas keeps pace with social change."

The area has been selected for regeneration by Whitehall after figures showed low demand and collapsing housing markets.

Up to 20 per cent of houses are vacant in some areas, a sight that deters the newcomers who bring new money and energy to other areas.

Lancashire County Council is also to use its "economies of scale" to act as banker for the five authorities.