A NEW law centre to help disadvantaged communities in Kirklees may open in the autumn.

The Legal Services Commission has been working with Kirklees Council to set up the centre.

It will provide free legal advice to people who qualify for Legal Aid, paid for by the taxpayer.

The commission has agreed to give £100,000 towards the centre, which is expected to be matched by the council.

A building in the middle of Dewsbury is being considered for the centre.

Mr Peter Nelson, the commission's director for Yorkshire and Humberside, said: "It is primarily about giving advice to people who are eligible for Legal Aid.

"We are trying to meet the needs of people who have a particular need for Legal Aid."

Mr Nelson said the commission was still in discussion with Kirklees about the areas of law that advice would be provided for.

He thought the centre would employ about four case workers.

These would not necessarily be solicitors, but would be qualified to give legal advice.

Mr Nelson added: "The initiative is driven by the council, who are looking for premises and are putting in some set-up costs to adapt them."