'What we've chosen for council merger

Wyre Council has released a new statement about a proposed merger with Blackpool as part of government reorganisation plans - but the authority has a different vision than its near neighbour.

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The Government intends to abolish the current two-tier system of 15 councils across Lancashire by creating new unitary councils that will provide all local services.

These Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) proposals aim to simplify and streamline services - but the changes are mandatory rather than optional.

Wyre council says it is not in favour of the plans but must come up with its preferred option by the end of next week.

And, favouring a three-unitary authority plan, Wyre backs the Coastal Lancashire model, which would see it combining with Blackpool, Fylde and Lancaster (serving approximately 493,000 people).