‘Detailed discussions’ ahead of councils shake-up, says South Holland leader Nick Worth

Council leaders are preparing for ‘more detailed discussions’ as they put forward their proposals for a major shake-up of the county’s political landscape.

Government ministers have set out a timeline for the reorganisation of our local authorities — the next change lined up as the biggest change of our politics for a generation, the first stage of which would see the election of a Greater Lincolnshire mayor.

This large-scale revamp would also scrap two-tier government – county and district councils – in favour of one large authority to oversee all services.

Minister of State in the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Jim McMahon - who has written a letter outlining the plans to council leaders - believes these changes could the country about £2 billion in savings.

"We welcome further clarity coming from the Minister’s formal letter that was sent to council leaders, and we will now be having more detailed discussions with other leaders across Greater Lincolnshire on what unitary model works best for residents and the wider economy of the region," South Holland District Council leader Nick Worth said.

“The timelines set out in the letter from Government make it clear a draft proposal needs to be submitted on or before March 21, 2025.

“We will continue to work hard to reach an agreement that meets the expectations of the white paper but also meets the expectations of the communities we serve.”

Meanwhile, Lincolnshire County Council has confirmed that elections will take place this May.

Candidates from across 70 divisions will vie for a seat on the county council when polls open on Thursday, May 1, the same day residents will choose Greater Lincolnshire’s first mayor.