Lancashire set for four new councils in biggest local government shake-up in 50 years

The Government has announced its decision on Local Government Reorganisation in Lancashire, in a move it says will bring the biggest change in local government in more than 50 years.

The plans, which still need Parliamentary approval, would replace all 15 existing councils with four new unitary councils.

Those new councils would be 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; and South Lancashire, made up of Chorley, South Ribble and West Lancashire.

The changes would mean the new unitary councils take responsibility for all local services in their areas.

The Government has confirmed elections to the new shadow councils will take place in May 2027, with the new unitary councils due to go live on 1 April 2028.

For now, the current 15 councils will continue to provide services as normal, with no immediate changes to how those services are delivered or accessed.

A spokesperson for Lancashire’s LGR Board of Chief Executives said: “Today’s announcement marks an important milestone for Lancashire.

“While there will understandably be a great deal of interest in what this means for our residents, businesses and communities, it is important to stress that for now, it is very much business as usual.

“No matter how we are reshaped, our priority remains unchanged – to continue delivering high-quality services while we work together across Lancashire to plan the next steps.

“There is strong collaboration already in place. By working together, we have a real opportunity to create something positive for our residents, communities and workforce. This is a long-term change, and there is time to ensure the transition is carefully managed.

“We recognise that change of this scale can bring uncertainty. We are committed to being open and transparent throughout the process, keeping residents, staff and partners informed as more details become available.”

The Government says residents should see no disruption to services while the changes are made, and councillors will continue in their roles representing and supporting their communities throughout the transition.

More information is available at www.lancashirelgr.co.uk.