RUMOURS that a new bail hostel was planned for the borough have been laid to rest after it was revealed the plans have been scrapped.


Council leader Peter Britcliffe welcomed assurances from the North West regional offender managers office that Clearsprings, who run the Bail Accommodation and Support Service (BASS) in the region, has shelved the scheme.


He said: "We were relieved to hear that Clearsprings will not be locating bail hostels here in Hyndburn.


"We had not been consulted about any plans and were horrified to hear that they were planning to accommodate offenders here.


"We have been working hard to get to the bottom of the matter ever since, so hearing the confirmation was extremely welcome news."


Greg Pope MP said: "I am delighted to hear confirmation that Clearsprings are not going ahead with accomodation for offenders here in Hyndburn.


"It had been a matter of great concern to many people that, not only did this seem to be proceeding, but Hyndburn Borough Council had not even been consulted.


"I was pleased to work closely with the leader of the council on this and I raised the issue directly with the lord chancellor and justice ministers.


"I am sure that a lot of people will be relieved that common sense has prevailed and that Hyndburn is no longer being considered as a location for more offenders."