Council unites behind ‘long awaited’ proposal for local government reorganisation

Blackburn with Darwen Councillors debated the Government’s request to simplify local government in Lancashire last night (Wednesday, November 19). They voted in favour of endorsing the “most sensible”  proposal for a classic East Lancashire council. The new council would bring together Blackburn with Darwen, Burnley, Hyndburn, Pendle, Ribble Valley and Rossendale – an area known for innovation, skills and strong communities.

A request to Government to have the option to postpone elections for a year to avoid £200,000 costs was also agreed.

Under the proposed model, the current 15 councils in Lancashire would become three unitary councils, responsible for delivering all local services, everything from social care and education to waste collection and planning. The evidence collected shows that it can both save money and improve services.

All current councils will cease to exist and the towns that make up the areas will form part of the new council, retaining their identity. The goal is to deliver improvements and opportunities for residents, business, partner organisations and visitors.

Councillor Phil Riley, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said:

We need to get on with it. It’s the most sensible and decent way to divide Lancashire up. It will stand the test of time.

It will be silly and unnecessary to hold elections in May then again a year later on different boundaries.

Councillor Quesir Mahmood, Executive member for growth and development, added:

This has taken a long time. The classic East Lancashire proposal is most sensible geographically and economically. Without it we will continue to miss out to places all around us that have these arrangements.

The council’s two opposition leaders, Councillor John Slater and Councillor Mustafa Desai also spoke in favour of the proposals on behalf of their groups.

The business case will now be submitted on behalf of all councils supporting this option on November 28. Following this the Government will decide which options will be consulted on in new year. A final decision is expected in the summer.

You can read the full proposal: The case for three unitary authorities for Lancashire