Local Government Reorganisation
The Government has announced its preferred option for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Lancashire.
Subject to Parliamentary approval, four new councils will be created to replace the current 15 councils. The new arrangements will be legally confirmed only once a Structural Change Order is made.
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.
Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) – Your Questions Answered
What is Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)?
Local Government Reorganisation is the process by which the government is replacing Lancashire's current 15 councils with a smaller number of new unitary councils. These new councils will be responsible for all local services in their area, such as education, social care, waste collection and planning.
What’s happening?
What has been announced?
The government has now announced its preferred option for Lancashire.
Subject to Parliamentary approval, this would mean Lancashire is served by four new unitary councils.
What will the new councils look like?
The new councils will replace the current 15 councils and will be responsible for delivering all services in their area.
The new unitary council areas are:
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
What this means for you
Will my services change?
No. There are no immediate changes to services. Everything will continue as normal, and you will keep accessing services in the same way.
Will I still contact the same council?
Yes, for now. There will be plenty of notice before any changes are made.
When will this happen?
The new unitary councils will take over responsibility for services in April 2028. Elections to Shadow Councils will take place in May 2027.
Until then, the current councils will continue to operate as they do now.
Why is this happening?
Why is local government changing?
The Government believes that having fewer councils will:
- make services simpler to access
- improve efficiency and value for money
- provide clearer accountability for local decisions
Will services improve?
The aim is to create a simpler, more joined-up system that works better for residents and communities.
How the change will happen
What happens next?
There will be a period of planning and transition over the next two years. This includes:
- setting up the new councils
- planning how services will transfer
- making sure everything continues to run smoothly
Will there be disruption?
The Government has said there should be no disruption to services during this process. Councils are working together to ensure a smooth transition.
Your community
What about town and parish councils?
Town and parish councils will continue as they are and will still represent local communities.
Will this affect local decision-making?
Local communities will continue to have a voice through councillors and local councils. The aim is to keep strong local representation while simplifying how services are delivered.
Keeping you informed
How will I find out more?
We will share updates as more information becomes available. Your current council will also continue to share updates throughout this transition.
