HYNDBURN Council is set to re-name its regeneration arm, we can exclusively reveal.
But staff at Hyndburn FIRST are facing an uncertain future as job cuts could filter through the ranks.
The news comes hot on the heels of the departure of director Nigel Rix, who left his £75,000-a-year post last month.
Now, Hyndburn Council leader Peter Britcliffe has revealed plans to transform the body in the New Year.
He said this week: "I can confirm that there is an intention to change the name of Hyndburn FIRST. The main reason we are doing this is to clear up the confusion between it and the strategic partnership, which is Hyndburn First Ltd."
He added: "We are in a period of re-organisation and this is always worrying for staff but any changes we make will be dealt with sensitively with the interests of the council tax payers in mind."
However, one worker, who wishes to remain anonymous, has written to the Observer expressing his fears.
He said: "Can you imagine how much money it will cost to print new stationery and business cards as well as advertising signs around Hyndburn? I have been told I will possibly have to reduce my hours. Why don't they leave well alone?"
But Councillor Britcliffe said the council was undergoing changes in all its departments.
He said: "We are being told to become more efficient and as streamlined as we can be. It is far too early to say if there will be any redundancies or not.
"If there are any changes I hope we can find people suitable employment within the council. Whatever the new name, the aim will continue to be the regeneration of Hyndburn. That has always been our priority.
"We have seen the cinema arrive in Accrington and the market development, and the regeneration of Broadway is about to start which will complete the jigsaw. We are also looking for a partner for the Market Hall and so far we have had 50 expressions of interest from all over the country."
The plans are set to be given the green light by Hyndburn's Cabinet in the New Year.
