COUNCIL chiefs are set to save a scheme aimed at tackling anti-social behaviour among youngsters in Burnley despite concerns over funding.

The Space Bus was launched in May 2007 after a survey of youngsters in the town revealed they felt they had nothing to do.

Since then it has been visited more than 31,000 times and has received national acclaim.

According to council bosses it is used by up to 90 youngsters per night.

Already this year the scheme has lost £7,400 funding as part of the cuts being introduced by Burnley Borough Council and the coalition Government, prompting concerns about its future.

Sam McConnell, Burnley’s community safety manager, said: “The Space Bus has been a great success and the aim is to ensure its long-term future and sustainability,” she said.

“The majority of funding for next year is already in place.

"We’re now looking at ensuring the success of the Space Bus continues past that.

“A report will go to councillors next month setting out options for the future.”

The double-decker Space Bus is out five nights a week across Burnley and Padiham offering a wide range of activities for young people as part of wider work to divert young people from anti-social behaviour.

The facility provides features such as a chill-out area, TV/DVD, games consoles, internet computers, sports facilities and advice regarding social issues and concerns.

In its first six months of operation, there were more than 700 fewer incidents of damage and anti-social behaviour, and a reduction of 20 per cent in criminal damage.

The bus was called ‘remarkable’ when it was visited by HRH The Prince of Wales in 2008.