West Lancashire Borough Council welcomes the Government’s decision on Local Government Reorganisation

The Government has confirmed its preferred option for Local Government Reorganisation in Lancashire with the current 15 existing Councils to be divided into four new unitary authorities. 

Under the proposed 4a Unitary Authority Model, West Lancashire will join Chorley and South Ribble to create a new unitary authority, bringing services together under a single council, providing a stronger, more strategic way forward for local governance across the south Lancashire area. 

Councillor David Whittington, Leader of West Lancashire Borough Council, said: "I’m delighted that our preferred model for Local Government Reorganisation has been agreed by Government and that our efforts over the past couple of years to champion this option have come to fruition. 

“We share many cultural and geographic characteristics with Chorley and South Ribble and this decision provides a once in a generation opportunity to put local people in a position to more directly influence the decisions that affect them most.

Councillor Adrian Owens, Deputy Leader of the Council added: "This decision is very welcome news and one I feel has real potential to benefit everyone in West Lancashire.

“It will simplify decision-making, improve efficiency and make the best use of public resources that deliver lasting benefits for residents and local businesses."

Councillor Mark Anderson, Leader of the Labour Group, said: "Our shared journey as a Council throughout this transition, has been to focus on protecting and improving services for residents while ensuring local communities continue to have a strong voice in shaping their future."

“I’m delighted we will now be able to start to see this vision turn into reality and look forward to working with our neighbours in Chorley and South Ribble.”