A BURNLEY software development company has benefitted from £100,000 in local authority loans to grow and maintain the borough’s leading position in the hi-tech sector.

JP74 creates digital platforms and strategies for companies worldwide.

It recently received the joint loan comprising £50,000 from Burnley Council’s Business Growth Programme and £50,000 from Lancashire County Council’s Rosebud Fund to invest in further research and development, create highly-skilled jobs and accelerate its growth aspirations.

Burnley Council leader Mark Townsend said: “Burnley ranks as one of the top places for digital jobs growth in Britain and we are leading the way in how support growth in this sector.

“Embracing digital technology will have huge rewards for Burnley businessess and economy making a more competitive and prosperous place.’”

Pete Walker, director of JP74 said: “We’ve received a tremendous amount of support from Burnley Council and the joint loan fund with Rosebud will really help us take the next step to grow the business and help drive our R&D.”

County councillor Michael Green, cabinet member for economic development said: “We recognise the importance of the digital sector, which we’ve identified as one with high growth potential.”