Up to 60 new jobs will be created at the centre where Chubb currently manages a significant share of its credit control and business administration functions for its electronic security businesses, including the former Initial Electronic Security (IES) operation.

Pete Walsh, billings and collections manager responsible for the SSC explains: "We recognised that a local service delivered by local people supported by the latest IT systems would mean a speedy and efficient turnaround of customer invoice issues."

"We will continue to recruit more teams and invest in further technology as other divisions within Chubb - and specifically our Chubb Monitoring and Response Services (CMRS) operation - migrate their credit control requirements to Blackburn."

The initiative has the backing of the North West Development Agency (NWDA), a body committed to investing in businesses and people throughout the region. The NWDA is providing a grant of c£250,000 towards the facility located at The Beehive on the Shadsworth Business Park, as well as logistical support and help in evaluating the local labour market and identifying skilled labour.

Mark Hughes, executive director for Enterprise and Skills and the NWDA adds: "The NWDA is pleased to have facilitated another successful investment in the Blackburn area and will continue to work closely with Chubb on future expansion opportunities."

Chubb also intends to co-locate its national sales operation to the Beehive facility, and so further enhance the service provided to existing and potential customers by working alongside their accounts and administration colleagues.