Council
Blackburn with Darwen council merger decision withdrawn as Government reviews plans
Plans to merge Blackburn with Darwen with four neighbouring council areas are back under review after the Government formally withdrew its previous decision on local government reorganisation in Lancashire.
In July, the Government announced plans to replace Lancashire’s 15 existing councils with four larger unitary authorities, including a new East Lancashire council covering Blackburn with Darwen, Burnley, Hyndburn, Pendle and Rossendale.
However, following a review announced in September, ministers have now withdrawn that decision, meaning the proposed boundaries and council arrangements are no longer confirmed.
The Government announced on Thursday 29 October that the review will continue into early 2027, with all previously submitted proposals remaining under consideration.
What does this mean for Blackburn with Darwen?
Under the original proposals, Blackburn with Darwen Council would have ceased to exist as a separate authority in April 2028, with its responsibilities transferring to a much larger East Lancashire council.
While the Government remains committed to reducing the number of councils across Lancashire, the exact structure has yet to be determined.
The latest announcement also confirms a revised timetable:
- May 2027: Local elections will proceed for existing councils.
- Early 2027: The Government aims to announce the outcome of its review.
- May 2028: Elections to the new shadow councils are planned.
- 1 April 2029: The new councils are scheduled to take over responsibility for services.
For residents, council services and how they are accessed will not change immediately.
Work continues while review takes place
Lancashire’s Local Government Reorganisation programme has welcomed the Government’s confirmation of the timetable.
Mark Wynn, the Senior Responsible Officer for Local Government Reorganisation in Lancashire, said:
“It’s helpful to now have confirmation from Government of the timetable for its review of LGR in Lancashire.
“Since the review was announced, the Programme Delivery Office and councils across Lancashire have reviewed implementation plans to identify the activity that can continue while the review is undertaken.
“This includes work that is not dependent on a particular future council structure or implementation timetable, helping to ensure that progress continues while avoiding unnecessary expenditure or abortive work.
“By focusing on these priorities, Lancashire will remain in a strong position to respond quickly and effectively when the outcome of the government’s review is known.
“We will continue to work collaboratively with councils, elected members, staff and partners to ensure that we are well prepared for the next stage of the programme.”
What happens next?
The Government has confirmed that local government reorganisation will continue across England, with decisions on outstanding proposals expected by early 2027.
For Blackburn with Darwen, this means the previously announced merger with neighbouring East Lancashire authorities remains a possibility, but is no longer a confirmed decision.
Further information about the reorganisation programme and frequently asked questions is available at: