Statement on Local Government Reorganisation

The Government has today (Monday September 7) announced a review of its Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) programme.

As part of this review, the reorganisation proposals affecting Lancashire, Blackburn with Darwen and Blackpool will be paused while further work is carried out.

For Lancaster, that means plans to join with Preston and Ribble Valley are on hold. The Government has also confirmed that local elections in May 2027 will go ahead on existing council boundaries.

Reacting to the news, Councillor Caroline Jackson, Leader of Lancaster City Council, said: “Today's announcement leaves a trail of unanswered questions and it is imperative that there is a swift conclusion to the Government’s review. Uncertainty has already affected our councillors and officers as they try to create priorities, plans and effective services.

“Our priority has always been to ensure that any future arrangements deliver the best possible services for our communities and create a strong, sustainable future. To achieve that, we need certainty and a clear direction.

“Along with the other local authorities affected by LGR, significant time, effort and resources have been invested in preparing for the proposed changes and working towards a potential vesting day in 2028.

“For us, that work has included establishing a cross-party working group to give the council and our communities a strong voice in the process. Officers from across the council have also contributed their time and expertise to the pan-Lancashire programme, supporting workstreams covering areas such as finance, staffing, ICT, governance, assets and frontline services.

“Managing this additional programme of work alongside the delivery of day-to-day services for residents has been extremely demanding for both councillors and officers.

"I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to this work so far; their commitment, professionalism and hard work throughout this process have been invaluable. Covid showed the strength and tenacity of truly local authorities and I think LGR has brought out the same spirit.

“We will continue to engage constructively with the Government and the other Lancashire councils, but it is essential that we receive clarity on the intended way forward as soon as possible.”

 

Last updated: 07 September 2026