The Lancashire Combined County Authority has acknowledged the government’s decision on Local Government Reorganisation in Lancashire, announced last Thursday (16 July).
This decision, subject to Parliamentary approval, represents the biggest change in local government in more than 50 years.
Under the plans four new unitary councils will be created, replacing all 15 existing councils. The new unitary councils will cover:
- North Lancashire – made up of Lancaster, Preston and Ribble Valley
- West Lancashire – made up of Fylde, Wyre and Blackpool
- East Lancashire – made up of Blackburn with Darwen, Hyndburn, Rossendale, Pendle and Burnley
- South Lancashire – made up of Chorley, South Ribble and West Lancashire
Subject to Parliamentary approval, the new unitary councils, which will go live in April 2028, will take responsibility for all local services in their areas.
Matthew Sidgreaves, Chief Operating Officer for the Lancashire Combined County Authority (LCCA), said:
“The decision on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) provides clarity on the future of local government in Lancashire.
“While the strategic role of the LCCA will be unaffected by this decision, we recognise that it represents a significant change for our constituent councils and for local authorities across the county.
“It is expected that the new unitary authorities will become constituent members of the LCCA when reorganisation takes place, and we look forward to working closely with elected members and officers as they develop the shadow arrangements.
"Councils have already taken a constructive and collaborative approach to reorganisation and, by continuing to work together, we can support a smooth transition while maintaining our shared focus on delivering positive outcomes for Lancashire’s residents, communities and businesses.
“It is important to note that devolution and local government reorganisation are separate processes, and as the LCCA, we will continue to work with Government on future devolution opportunities for Lancashire.”