The initiative featured on a television documentary

The decision led to the closure of the Airborne Initiative, which featured in the BBC television series Chancers.

A group of 23 influential figures is calling for the project to stay open.

But First Minister Jack McConnell defended the decision, saying: "The project was not value for money and was not cost effective."

He added: "The money will be far better used in other projects elsewhere in Scotland."

Influential support

Mr McConnell referred to a neighbouring project run by a group called Includem, which encourages young offenders to address their behaviour while equipping them with new skills.

The first minister insisted: "We remain absolutely committed to not just being tough on crime and anti-social behaviour but, just as importantly, supporting projects that turn around young lives and give people a second chance."

The Scottish Executive cut its �600,000 funding for the project two weeks ago.

I can see no social, financial or community benefit from the entirely perverse decision to close Airborne Robin Harper Green MSP

The scheme's supporters argue that it has had a major effect in reducing re-offending rates.

Those backing the project include retired High Court judge Lord Prosser, author Ian Rankin and Sir David Ramsbotham, the former Chief Inspector of Prisons in England and Wales.

The Scottish Green Party's parliamentary leader Robin Harper has lodged a motion at Holyrood regretting the executive's decision.

The MSP is seeking cross-party support for the initiative, which he said had an "extraordinary" success rate for reducing reoffending.

"It is impossible to value too highly not only the benefits to those who successfully completed the course but also the community as a whole that would have undoubtedly suffered without the intervention of this course," he said.