Local Government Reorganisation
Local Government Reorganisation in Lancashire paused for review
On Monday 7 September, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, announced a review has been launched into plans to streamline local government to ensure it is robust and aligns with new government priorities.
Mark Wynn, the Senior Responsible Officer for Local Government Reorganisation in Lancashire, said: “We note the government’s announcement that plans for local government reorganisation in Lancashire will be reviewed and paused.
"Collectively we will consider the detail carefully and continue to work together while the review takes place.
"In the meantime, the focus of all of Lancashire's councils remains firmly on delivering services and supporting residents and communities across the county.”
Local elections in May 2027 will go ahead on existing council boundaries rather than the shadow authority.
We understand that people may have questions about what this means. We are committed to being open, honest and transparent, and we will continue to share updates as more information becomes available.
The Government has announced its preferred option for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Lancashire.
Read the full statement from MHCLG
You can find more information on the Lancashire LGR website.
What was agreed by Government
The Government announced its preferred option for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Lancashire in July 2026.
Subject to Parliamentary approval, four new councils would be created to replace the current 15 councils. The new arrangements will be legally confirmed only once a Structural Change Order is made.
The map below shows the agreed structure as follows:
- North – Lancaster, Preston and Ribble Valley
- West – Fylde, Wyre and Blackpool
- East – Blackburn with Darwen, Hyndburn, Rossendale, Pendle and Burnley
- South – Chorley, South Ribble and West Lancashire
This marks the start of the next phase of planning for the new unitary councils.
For now, it is business as usual. There are no immediate changes to services. Residents should continue to access support in the same way as they do now. Our focus remains on keeping services running smoothly and supporting our communities.
Local Government Reorganisation is about changing how councils are organised, not how people use services day to day. In the future, the new unitary councils will bring services together under a single organisation, making it simpler and more joined-up for residents.
This is a phased, long-term process. The new unitary councils are expected to take on responsibility for services in April 2028. This allows time for careful planning to ensure a smooth and well-managed transition.
We understand that people may have questions about what this means. We are committed to being open, honest and transparent, and we will continue to share updates as more information becomes available.
You can find more information on the Lancashire LGR website.