THE Business Links scheme for East Lancashire could be up and running within six months.

The government has given the go-ahead for six outlets in the area under the scheme which is the final one in the country to be approved.

Funding of £1.7 million over three years has been provisionally agreed for the East Lancashire Links scheme which will provide local business advice centres for small and medium sized firms.

The initiative, which will be run by a board including local authorities, ELTEC, the Chamber of Commerce, enterprise agencies, Lancashire Enterprises and Lancashire County Enterprises, could be in operation by late autumn.

Exact locations for the local access points in each of the boroughs have yet to be decided, but the hub of the operation is expected to be at Red Rose Court, Clayton-le-Moors.

And Michael Damms, chief executive of the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, believes being the last area in the country to get approval will be an advantage. "It means we will be able to draw on the experiences of other Business Links around the country and learn from what they have done," said Mr Damms.

Now the shadow board will be looking to finalise locations and appoint a chief executive and business advisers.

"It is essential that we get the right calibre of people who will really be able to relate to industry and be of use to it," said Mr Damms.

Small business minister Richard Page claims the influence of the schemes in other parts of the country has been dramatic.

"We are seeing a dramatic increase in the use of business support services and a cultural change in the attitude of small firms to seeking help and advice," said Mr Page.

"I have no doubt that Business Links will be the source of inspiration and support for small and medium sized businesses which will enable this country to effectively meet the challenge posed by the increasingly competitive market place."

There are now 79 Business Link partnerships open with 223 outlets.

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