Local Government Reorganisation in Lancashire
Page updated: 20 July 2026
The Government has announced its preferred option for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Lancashire, subject to Parliamentary approval.
The decision represents the biggest change to local government in Lancashire for more than 50 years and would see the current 15 councils replaced by four new unitary authorities, each responsible for delivering all local council services within their area.
The new unitary 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 Government has confirmed that elections to the new shadow councils will take place in May 2027, with the new unitary authorities becoming operational on 1 April 2028.
This is separate from the devolution process. You can find more details about the differences between devolution and LGR here - The devolution and LG reorganisation hub | Local Government Association
What this means for residents
Wyre Council will continue to deliver services as normal throughout the transition period. There are no immediate changes to the way residents access council services, and people should continue to contact the council in the usual way.
Today's announcement provides clarity on the future structure of local government in Lancashire and marks the start of a significant period of change. While Wyre Council has a strong record of delivering high-quality services and championing local communities, it will now work closely with partners across Lancashire to support a smooth and effective transition to the new authority.
For residents, the key message is simple: the services people rely on every day will continue as normal while plans for the new authority are developed.
As this work progresses, the council will focus on ensuring that Wyre's distinctive identity, communities and priorities – from its coastline and market towns to its rural villages – are recognised and represented within the new authority, while continuing to serve the interests of local residents.
For more information please visit - Local Government reorganisation in Lancashire
Timeline
- Summer 2026 – Government decision
- May 2027 – Shadow elections
- 1 April 2028 – New councils go live
Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government decision letter
This page will be updated as information becomes available from central government, partner agencies and the local authorities in Lancashire.