AN EDUCATIONAL lifeline for people with learning difficulties is to be saved.

A proposal to safeguard the future of Bacup's greenhouses, in Stubbylee Park has been recommennded for approval by Rossendale Councils' cabinet.

It plans to put forward a scheme that will see a social enterprise operation running the service - providing learning opportunities and a community resource.

The not-for-profit Close to the Hedge' project - a partnership between Accrington and Rossendale College, Bacup Consortium Trust and Groundwork Rossendale - wants to lease and maintain the former municipal greenhouses for a minimal rent.

The greenhouses act as a learning and training base for up to 20 adults with learning disabilities from Ewood Day Centre, Haslingden, plus horticulture students from Accrington and Rossendale College.

As part of the proposal the council will agree to purchase bedding plants and horticultural supplies from the project for a minimum of three years - at a fixed price previously budgeted for.

Earlier this year Tory councillor Jimmy Eaton spoke against his party's plans to close the greenhouses in a bid to save £30,000 in its budget.

On behalf of the Close to the Hedge project Alan Henderson, of Accrington and Rossendale College, said: "It would have been a big loss if the greenhouses were to close. I work with school-leavers and it's ideal for them because it means they don't have to travel to get on-the-job work experience."

He added: "The council have given us a 12-month period where they are continuing to provide support in terms of insurance and electric so we haven't got a lot of bills to pay at the start. "

Tory councillor Judith Driver, cabinet member for streetscene and liveability, said: "This is a win-win situation. The council will still be able to achieve the budget saving required but we will also be able to support a valuable social enterprise activity which will benefit the wider community."

The matter will be discussed at Tuesday's Cabinet meeting.