URL: https://democracy.ribblevalley.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1256

Decision Maker: Policy and Finance

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: The Chief Executive submitted a report updating Committee on Local Government Reorganisation.   Interim proposals had been jointly submitted from Lancashire Councils by the required deadline. The interim feedback from the Government received on 15 May 2025 was included with the report and provided guidance moving towards the final submission stage in November.   Meetings of Lancashire Leaders and Chief Executives were taking place to discuss the next stage, along with meetings with representatives of Preston City Council and Lancaster City Council to discuss the Council’s favoured Unitary option. The Government had also announced that Lancashire would receive £449,075 to help develop proposals, with information awaited on how this would be shared.   Quotations were also being sought from a number of specialist consultancy firms to assist with the formulation of the final submission.   At the meeting, Members posed questions to Officers and discussed the latest position. It was confirmed that the Council supported keeping the Ribble Valley Borough intact and did not support any proposals to change the boundaries in any way. Members continued to have concerns over the future reduction in elected representation and therefore maintained their support for the four unitary option. Members also noted the importance of Parish Councils and raised concerns over the creation of Neighbourhood Forums.   Committee supported the recommendation in the report and requested that Members be provided regular updates on progress. The Chairman provided Members with an overview of forthcoming meetings and would feedback wherever possible.   RESOLVED THAT COMMITTEE:   Delegated to the Chief Executive in consultation with the Chairman of this Committee, the shared commissioning of consultants to progress the Council’s submission if necessary.  

Date of Decision: June 17, 2025