VANDALS and thugs have forced Lancashire County Council into selling off a building used as a road safety centre.

A campaign of intimidation, theft and damage has led to the road safety centre at Ewood closing its doors for good.

County Hall bosses are now looking at ways of selling off the building and land, which was used by motoring organisations, voluntary groups and county staff.

The site, home of Lancashire's skid pan, is next door to a permanent gipsy camp and has been a constant target.

A report to the county council has revealed workmen called out to repair damage have been threatened by people living at the camp.

Staff and visitors have also complained about being intimidated by the travellers. And officials believe the centre has suffered thousands of pounds-worth of damage in the last 18 months. The council had hoped to solve the problem, but the situation has got so bad in recent months County Hall officials have decided to take urgent action.

Vandalism has increased, so much County Hall bosses say the authority can no longer afford the repair bill at the 25-year-old centre.

A spokesman said: "The building has been subjected to repeated vandalism and theft and staff have been intimidated to such an extent that it is no longer possible for the centre to operate.

"With regret, the highways and transportation committee has agreed to the permanent closure of the facility and the sale of the land and buildings."

Highways bosses are now looking at other sites which can be used for skid control training. Driver training has been moved to Preston.

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