A BUYER for council-owned Hyndburn Transport could be selected within two weeks.

Council chief executive Mike Chambers has confirmed that "indicative" offers have been received from two bus companies, and a third operator may put in a bid.

It is hoped a report will go to a special private meeting of the policy and resources committee on July 9, immediately followed by an already-scheduled full meeting of Hyndburn Council.

Mr Chambers said: "I would be very surprised if we don't finish up with an offer that proves to be acceptable."

The chief executive, the council's finance boss and consultants KPMG have had lengthy meetings with each of the two companies this week.

The prospective buyers have asked for more management information about how Hyndburn Transport operates to "refine their calculations", said Mr Chambers.

The council had asked for clearer statements on jobs, pension arrangements, services and price.

Mr Chambers said: "When we get final offers, we need to be able to evaluate them and qualified statements are not helpful.

"Our objective is the best all-round prospects for employment, bus services and maintaining competition in bus services locally, it is not simply price-related," he added.

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