Purpose

This report outlines the proposed
reorganisation of local government in Lancashire, providing an
overview of the national policy context, the interim collaborative
response from Lancashire’s fifteen councils, and the emerging
options for unitary governance.
 
In response to the Government’s English
Devolution White Paper and subsequent guidance, local authorities
across Lancashire are working together to explore viable models for
reorganisation that reflect local identity, improve service
delivery, and support future devolution.
 
The report summarises the current position,
including the development of a joint economic and financial
evidence base, the consultation process, and the development of
five potential unitary options.
 
It also sets out the Government’s
criteria for evaluating proposals and the implications for the
Lancashire Combined County Authority (LCCA), particularly in
relation to governance, strategic functions, and future devolution
arrangements.
 
Key next steps include finalising the business
cases for submission to Government by 28th November 2025, ensuring
alignment with devolution ambitions, and maintaining a strong,
collaborative approach to shaping the future of local government in
Lancashire.

Content

The Lancashire Combined County Authority
approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.