EMPLOYMENT opportunities in Pendle have been given a £3million boost by the Northwest Development Agency (NWDA).

The agency today announced it would provide the funding for a four-year business support scheme aimed at encouraging private sector investment through its single regeneration budget.

It was hoped this would then lead on to new and better quality employment opportunities for local people.

Assistance will take the form of grants of up to £30,000 for new and established businesses and will be focused on encouraging the development of businesses in growth sectors.

The funding is a portion of £33 million of grants by the NWDA to regeneration programmes across the North West.

Bryan Gray, chairman of the NWDA, said: "The Agency is delighted to support such important initiatives which are excellent news for the Northwest.

"These schemes aim to regenerate the region socially, physically and economically and bring real benefits to both business and the community.

"Through encouraging investment, safeguarding and creating jobs and providing environmental improvements, I have every confidence that these schemes will contribute significantly to the economic development of the entire region."