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Views sought on four options to reshape councils

Charis Scott-HolmEast Yorkshire and Lincolnshire
News imageGetty Images An artistic shot of Lincoln city from a distance over misty countryside. There are hay bales in the foreground and Lincoln Minster can be seen silhouetted in the background. Getty Images
Lincolnshire residents could soon see larger local authorities manage services such as roads and refuse

People are being asked for their views on a major revamp of councils in Lincolnshire.

The government has proposed a "once-in-a-generation" reform of local authorities and said it could save millions of pounds by creating larger, unitary bodies.

Of six proposals submitted to the government from councils across Lincolnshire, four have been selected for consultation.

Alison McGovern, minister of state for local government and homelessness, said: "Unitary councils provide clarity for residents and are more effective. That's why we're carrying out the biggest change to local government in a generation."

She added: "I would encourage local people and businesses to share their views in shaping the future of their area."

News imageGetty Images An aerial view of Lincoln city, with the Minster in a prominent position. It is a clear and sunny day and the trees are in full leaf.Getty Images
City of Lincoln Council is one of seven district councils in the current system

The current two-tier system has seven district councils across Lincolnshire, which deliver local services such as waste collection.

Lincolnshire County Council is responsible for larger countywide services on top of this, including social care.

North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire councils, which are not currently under Lincolnshire County Council, will also be included in this revamp.

In February 2025, the government asked the district and county councils to put forward options to reform the system and create larger, single-tier organisations.

The four proposals the government has submitted for consultation are:

  • Boston Borough Council, East Lindsey District Council and South Holland District Council submitted a proposal for two unitary councils
  • City of Lincoln Council submitted a proposal for four unitary councils
  • Lincolnshire County Council submitted a proposal for three unitary councils (supported by North East Lincolnshire Council and North Lincolnshire Council)
  • North Kesteven District Council and South Kesteven District Council submitted a proposal for four unitary councils

West Lindsey District Council did not submit a proposal.

Residents can read more about the proposals and submit their views here.

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