A BID for £36 million worth of government and lottery money for services in Lancashire could be under threat because of a lack of support from local business.

Town hall bosses have been meeting with government officials as the final touches are put to the multi-million bid under the government's capital challenge fund.

Most of the cash is earmarked for 39 different projects across the county and a large part would go to Accrington and surrounding towns.

The overall theme of the county council's package is education and community and any investment would be concentrated on four areas.

A range of schemes have been highlighted in Hyndburn and the rest of the money would go to Fleetwood, Morecambe and Preston.

Town hall bosses are hoping for backing for an all-weather sports pitch at Accrington's Moorhead High School and refurbishment of the popular New Era youth centre. There is also a move to build a new fire station in Hyndburn Road and improve homes for the elderly and children.

There are plans to upgrade public transport in the borough and day centres for people with learning disabilities.

Around £600 million will be available across the country running up to the year 2000 and Lancashire's is applying for £21 million over the next three years.

The deadline for submitting of bids falls at the end of the month but the initial response from government officials has been disappointing because of the lack of backing from Lancashire's business community.

Town hall bosses have since contacted local firms with the hope of winning their support for the various projects.

Lancashire County Council criticised handing out money through a bidding system when the scheme was introduced.

But town hall bosses decided to apply for cash once the pilot scheme got underway.

The final bid will today be discussed by the county's social services committee.

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