A THREE-year growth programme is being launched to help create up to 250 jobs and provide fresh places for 45 apprentices.

Councillors have approved £1million proposals for the Burnley Business Growth initiative, which will also provide support for around 75 companies.

Coun Julie Cooper, council leader, said: “We are doing a great deal to help create the conditions for local businesses to flourish and this includes our own direct investment through this programme.”

Steve Rumbelow, the borough’s chief executive, said there were now three key programmes in place, backed by Regenerate Pennine Lancashire, offering support to start-up businesses and young companies and growth for medium to large firms.

Coun Andy Tatchell, deputy council leader and cabinet member for regeneration, said the approach was not a “quick fix” but designed to make businesses more competitive.