COUNTY Hall leaders have come under fire for their decision to reshape the administration of Lancashire's education service.

The move is part of the shake-up of local government in Lancashire and will see the closure of local education offices across the county.

People will be able to get help at information points in libraries and three district offices are also being opened.

East Lancashire's main office will be based at the Globe Centre in Accrington.

Robert Hodge, the Conservative's deputy spokesman on education, has labelled the changes a hotch-potch.

He said: "If we are to move to centralisation, as is being proposed, then why on earth are these three new centres needed.

"Surely this will result in a totally unnecessary triplication of resources and an increase in cost.

"Surely administration from one centre would be far less costly and much more efficient, especially in the provision of office accommodation."

Coun Hodge added: "The new system falls between all stools and is typical of Labour's way of running their affairs: top heavy administration with no concern about cost.

"What they are proposing is going to end up costing the council tax payers of Lancashire dearly."

But Labour are claiming the changes will lead to an improvement in the service.

Local government re-organisation chairman Chris Cheetham said: "Change is not always welcome and without local government reorganisation we might not have moved in this way at this time.

"However, I hope these changes will make our services more accessible and advice more available."

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