BUSINESSES are being urged to help play a role in trying to win funding to improve their surroundings.

Firms based on or around the Carrs Industrial Estate are being asked to take part in a feasibility study being carried out by Groundwork Rossendale, to try and win £100,000 support to improve the local area.

The findings will form part of a joint bid being planned through English Partnerships and the Environment Agency for £1.1 million to tackle 12 estates in the North West

"We know that several firms there are keen to see landscape and signage improvements. There are also major savings on offer from improvements in areas such as waste minimisation," said Groundwork Rossendale spokesman Trevor Boothman.

"If the study is successful, it could help win financial support for action across the estate.

"Similar schemes have resulted in a better image and site security, reduced pollution of the local environment and bottom-line rewards for the companies."

A meeting is being held next Friday, at GE Capital IT Solutions, Todd Hall Road. Further details are available from Tony Serjeant or Trevor Boothman on 01706 211421.

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