‘Our Lancashire’ – shaping a stronger future together
The Government intends to simplify the current structure of 15 councils across Lancashire with the aim of making services work better for residents and businesses by creating new unitary councils that will provide all local services. The objective is to achieve good quality jobs, better opportunities for everyone, and excellent children and adult social through efficient value for money local services that meet people’s needs.
Rossendale council operates very successfully as a district council offering great value for money. However, the government is driving the change to fewer larger unitary councils, and we have a duty to represent the communities we serve. To fulfil this responsibility, we have been working with other councils in Lancashire to put forward a joint proposal that would see the creation of three larger unitary councils covering Lancashire.
Under local government reorganisation all 15 local authorities that currently make up Lancashire will be abolished and replaced by unitary councils. Rossendale is supporting a three unitary council proposal because it will be the best option for the communities in Rossendale and most closely aligns with the criteria for new arrangements set out by the government.
A three unitary council option for Lancashire would bring together Rossendale, Ribble Valley, Pendle Burnley Hyndburn Blackburn with Darwen, and Lancashire to create a unitary representing over 586,000 people providing key services to our area which is known for innovation, skills and strong communities.
It would build on our strengths in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, green industries and digital technology, while protecting what makes each town special – from our culture and heritage to our stunning countryside.
For Lancashire, the option will:
✅ Save £188.4 million by 2032
✅ Keep strong local identities for our unique towns
✅ Mirror how police, health & other organisations work
✅ Ensure services stay close to local communities
Our place. Our future. Our Lancashire - Putting people at the heart of change
You can read a summary of the business case proposal for a three unitary council option across Lancashire at this link and the full business case at this link