Local Government Reorganisation

Local Government Reorganisation Consultation

Local Government Reorganisation Consultation

Following engagement with residents, businesses and community organisations, five distinct structural options — ranging from two to five unitary authorities — were submitted to Government in November 2025. Each proposal sets out a different configuration of new unitary councils to replace the current two-tier system of Lancashire County Council, the 12 district and borough councils, and the two existing unitary authorities (Blackpool and Blackburn with Darwen).

All proposals are designed to deliver:

  • Strong and accountable local leadership
  • Improved service delivery and better outcomes for residents
  • Value for money and long-term financial sustainability
  • Economic growth and prosperity
  • Protection of community identity and effective local partnerships

Statutory Consultation

The Government-led statutory consultation on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Lancashire is now live. The consultation seeks views on which proposal best meets the criteria set out in the statutory invitation issued to all Lancashire council Chief Executives on 5 February 2025.

The Government has confirmed that it will consult a wide range of stakeholders, including neighbouring authorities, health bodies, the police, fire and rescue services, education providers, other public sector organisations and businesses.

Have Your Say

All residents are encouraged to participate in the consultation.

Before responding, you may wish to review the proposal for a three-unitary authority model for Lancashire. While Rossendale Borough Council supports the three-unitary option, all submitted proposals are available to view on the Local Government in Lancashire website.

The consultation runs from 5 February to 26 March 2026. Following the close of the consultation, the Government will assess all responses against the statutory criteria and is expected to announce its decision in late summer 2026. Complete the survey online  

How to Respond

Next Steps

  • After the consultation closes on 26 March 2026, the Secretary of State will assess the proposals and confirm a preferred option in summer 2026. Updates will be provided once a decision has been made.
  • Shadow council elections for the new unitary authorities could take place in May 2027.
  • Full implementation (vesting day) is planned for April 2028.

To stay informed about Local Government Reorganisation, updates will be published on the Rossendale Borough Council website. You can also follow the Council on social media or sign up to the Rossendale Borough Council newsletter for the latest information.  Sign up to Rossendale Borough Council Newsletter