A TOTAL of eight jobs are at risk at an East Lancashire training provider which offers apprenticeships in the construction industry.

Training 2000, which has been established for almost 50 years, is carrying out a review of its business model with construction one of the areas at risk.

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The news comes as the company prepares to open a new £1 million Advanced Manufacturing and Automation Centre in Blackburn.

The business has more than 250 employees and provides a wide range of training courses and apprenticeships throughout the area.

It is not known whether the construction centre in Higher Croft Road will be closed as a result.

Chief executive officer Steve Gray said: “Along with all further education and training providers, we are currently reviewing our business model and refocussing our priorities, to ensure training delivery is in line with employer demand and the needs of learners.

“Construction is one of the areas currently under review, unfortunately resulting in eight job roles being put at risk “At this point we cannot confirm any further details until this review is complete, and will contact learners and employers affected by any changes.”

Tony Duckworth, president of Blackburn and District Chamber of Trade, said Brexit has provided uncertainty especially across the construction industry.

He said: “It’s undesirable to be losing the possibility of apprenticeships in Blackburn.

“Brexit has proved a level of uncertainty which is creating anxiety in a number of different sectors. Hopefully this will be resolved.

“We would hope the apprentice schemes they are currently running will continue.

“The local authority is committed to building more houses in the borough and it would be better if there were people trained in Blackburn doing the work.”

The new manufacturing centre, which received £800,000 from the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, is due to open this summer.

It is expected, in its first two years, more than 250 people will be able to study for higher engineering apprenticeships and upskilling programmes.

Earlier this year, Training 2000 ended its sponsorship of the University Technical College in Burnley which is due to close after struggling to recruit students.