A £1.5MILLION centre to help firms in East Lancashire use technology to boost their businesses is now up and running.

The East Lancashire Technology Management Centre, based at the Globe Centre, Accrington, is a base for a range of service for firms in the area. The centre, backed by a £600,000 grant from Europe, will offer accommodation for technology-based firms along with training courses and help with innovation.

"This new centre will provide a new impetus for the services we provide for small to medium sized companies helping them to develop and create new jobs," said Councillor Frank McKenna, deputy leader of Lancashire County Counuicl.

"With the valuable assistance of finance from Europe we are making a difference to the economy of East Lancashire."

The centre is a joint venture between Enterprise plc and Globe Enterprises, a partnership involving Hyndburn Borough Council, Barnfield Construction and businessman Stuart Nevison.

Enterprise plc has taken 70 per cent of the first floor and there has already been widespread interest in the remaining offices and workshops at the centre.

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