Lancashire’s business community has spoken!
The North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce (NWLCC) is urging the government to approve three unitary authorities for the county.
Hundreds of businesses have backed the proposal which would dramatically change the economic and political landscape of the county.
Following extensive consultation with the business community, the Chamber’s formal position is that Lancashire should be governed by three unitary authorities. These would consist of: (1) Fylde, Wyre, Blackpool and Lancaster; (2) Preston, Chorley, South Ribble and West Lancashire; and (3) East Lancashire.
The Chamber now urges the government to heed the voice of business in the county and support these proposals.
Local authorities across the county are now following the Chambers lead by carrying out similar consultations with residents for their view on how the future Lancashire landscape should look come 2028.
Several local councils have already publicly stated their intentions on how they wish local government reorganisation to progress.
Babs Murphy, chief executive of the NWLCC, said: “Business has spoken, and the Chamber has listened. As a voice of business, we have listened to members concerns and recommendations for all proposals and believe three unitary authorities would be the best for the county.
“A three unitary authority falls within the government’s population guidelines, connects existing councils with similar economic identities and could deliver better services to businesses and residents.
“Having a coastal, central and eastern local authority keeps local identity intact and promotes business collaboration, as well as reducing service duplication as some of these district councils already work together.
“The county requires clarity, accountability and an efficient local government structure which will strengthen our competitiveness. We urge the government to consider the Chambers proposal to ensure the restructure benefits the entire community and promotes social and economic growth for the county.”
Click HERE to see our letter to the Secretary of State.
