Key messages – 11 September 2026

LGR update

On Monday 7 September, the Government announced a review of its Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) plans. This means the LGR process for Lancashire, Blackpool and Blackburn with Darwen is now under review.
The announcement was unexpected, but discussions about the next steps are already under way.
The Government has reiterated its commitment to LGR and its role in supporting devolution during this Parliament.
Based on current Government statements, and assuming shadow elections take place in 2028, the likely Vesting Day, when the new councils would be established, would be in April 2029.
We need more information about the Government review before we can clarify the next steps.
There is likely to be speculation and rumours during this period, but we'd urge you to read the information on our channels to keep up to date. We will share the latest details with you as soon as we receive them.
For now, there is no change to your role, the council you work for or the services we provide. Please continue to work as usual while the review takes place.
For more information, read the message from Mark Wynn, our Chief Executive. on the LGR site.

Cabinet met on 3 September and considered several items, including reports on the council’s performance, finances and children’s services.
It noted our Quarter 1 Corporate Performance Report, which shows our progress against several performance indicators and achievements set out in our Moving the Dial council plan for 2026/27. The report presents a mainly positive position, with most targets achieved so far.
The finance report showed some forecast areas of overspend. Services are working to reduce these, and the position will continue to be monitored as part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring sound finances.
Cabinet welcomed the positive Ofsted inspection of our Children’s Services. Leadership and Services for Care Leavers were rated Outstanding, while Children in Care and Help and Protection were rated good.
For more information or to view a webcast of the meeting, visit the council rea of our website.

We are pleased to announce two key appointments:

Gary Fielding has been appointed as our Deputy Chief Executive and takes up this role with immediate effect.
Gary brings a wealth of experience to the role, having worked in various positions in councils across North Yorkshire over the past 35 years. He will support Mark Wynn during this important period for Lancashire.
Since joining the county council in July, he has served as our corporate director of finance and Section 151 officer and will continue this role alongside his position as deputy chief executive.
We also welcome Phil Greenup, who will join us as our new permanent Director of Highways and Transport in November.
Phil brings a wealth of experience in leading highways, transport and infrastructure services in local government.
He will lead the department, building on the great work already taking place across the county.
Until then, John Davies will continue as Interim Director.
I know you will welcome Gary and Phil and support them in their new roles.