The Government has today announced its decision on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Greater Lincolnshire.
Subject to legislation being passed, the Government has confirmed the creation of two new unitary authorities – a City of Lincoln unitary and a new unitary for Lincolnshire. The North East Lincolnshire and North Lincolnshire unitary councils will remain as existing authorities, with the potential to combine as one unitary authority in the future.
Existing county and district council arrangements will continue during a transition period while detailed governance and implementation arrangements are developed. The new Councils are expected to go live in April 2028.
Today’s decision follows the Government’s statutory consultation on proposals submitted by councils across the area and sets out their preferred approach to the future structure of local government.
Cllr Dale Broughton, Leader of Boston Borough Council; Cllr Craig Leyland, Leader of East Lindsey District Council and Cllr Nick Worth, Leader of South Holland District Council, jointly said: “We accept the Government’s decision and thank them for considering the joint proposal submitted by Boston, East Lindsey and South Holland.
“This is a significant change for local government in Greater Lincolnshire. While residents will be keen to understand what this means for them, our immediate focus remains on delivering day-to-day services and supporting our workforce as the next stages of the process are worked through.
“Each Council will now take time to review the detail of the announcement and understand the implications for our residents, services, staff and partners.
“There are no immediate changes to council services, or our day‑to‑day operations and residents should continue to access council services in the usual way.”
Cllr Sean Matthews, leader of Lincolnshire County Council, said: “The government has made a decision on what they think the best model is for Greater Lincolnshire. This will be a significant change and a long-term piece of work to implement, working with all councils to get the best outcomes for residents.
“However, I’d like to reassure our communities that in the meantime, whether it’s road repairs, caring for vulnerable children and adults, protecting communities in emergencies – maintaining the important services residents rely on will continue to be our priority.”
Any changes from today’s Government decision will be subject to further detailed work, the establishment of transitional arrangements and formal democratic processes.
Boston Borough Council, East Lindsey District Council and South Holland District Council which make the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership will provide further updates once additional information, including timescales and next steps, is confirmed by Government.
