YOUNG people in Pendle could benefit from a £25 million boost if a bid to the Government is successful.

Pendle Partnership, the consortium of council, business leaders and voluntary groups, has submitted a bid for an £8.5 million grant which could bring in a total investment of £25.3 million in youth-related projects.

They could include a young people's business park, training and jobs schemes and a new sports hall at Pendle Wavelengths swimming pool, Nelson.

The Pendle Youth Focus bid for Single Regeneration Budget cash will be submitted next year. It follows a similar failed bid earlier this year.

Pendle Council leader Alan Davies said: "There is tremendous enthusiasm across the borough for this bid.

"It targets recognised local needs and the exciting range of projects will benefit young people across the area.

"Councillors are keen to confirm the council's commitment to this partnership and we are hopeful of success in 1997."

A working group will concentrate on polishing up the bid before it is submitted to the Government.

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