Local Government Reorganisation in Lancashire

After considering a number of Unitary Authority options for Lancashire, the Government has announced its decision.

Under the plans, four new unitary councils will be created, replacing the 15 existing councils. The new councils will cover:

• 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.
• South Lancashire – made up of Chorley, South Ribble and West Lancashire

The new councils will take responsibility for all local services in their areas.

Elections to the new shadow councils will take place in May 2027.

The new unitary councils will go live on 1 April 2028.