Issue - meetings

To consider approving the Partnership’s proposal to Government for Local Government Reorganisation in Greater Lincolnshire (report of the Leader enclosed).

Consideration was given to the Report of the Assistant Director – Corporate which sought approval for the Partnership’s proposal to Government for Local Government Reorganisation in Greater Lincolnshire.

Following extensive engagement with partners, communities, businesses, town and parish councils, and all councillors, the Leader of the Council presented to Cabinet a proposal for the future of local government in Greater Lincolnshire.

The Leader advised that the proposal, developed by Boston, East Lindsey, and South Holland Councils, set out a bold vision for the region, meeting the government’s invitation and addressing long-standing challenges such as deprivation. It proposed the creation of two new financially stable unitary councils designed to deliver for the future.

The Leader reported that during engagement across Lincolnshire, transport had emerged as a major barrier to wellbeing, affecting access to education, healthcare, and social opportunities. This was reinforced by feedback from students who highlighted affordability and connectivity issues. The Leader confirmed that the proposal included a plan to address these concerns.

The Leader explained that the approach had started from a blank canvas, considering what structure would best meet the government’s criteria. Unlike other proposals focused on preserving the status quo, this proposal sought to create a new landscape for councils that would better serve communities.

The Leader noted that concerns had been raised about risks to adult and children’s services. He confirmed that the proposal focused on aggregation of these services, guided by expert advice and examples from other areas, ensuring safety and continuity.

The Leader advised that using independently verified financial assumptions and a midpoint approach to avoid optimism bias, the projected savings were £221 million over 10 years, with a four-year payback on initial investment which was significantly more than alternative proposals.

The Leader stated that the new authorities would work closely with the Mayoral County Combined Authority, complementing its role and noted that all partner councils were considering the final proposal during the week, ahead of submission on Friday 28^th November.

The Leader confirmed that the proposal was considered to best meet the government’s criteria and deliver the greatest benefits for communities in Greater Lincolnshire.

Those present acknowledged the significant work undertaken in preparing the documentand agreed that it represented a positive step towards achieving the intended objectives. Concerns were expressed regarding trust in central government and the potential impact of any savings on future grant funding, which might leave authorities in a similar financial position under a different structure.

Those present highlighted uncertainty over funding for road repair and maintenance within Lincolnshire, given the current poor condition of many roads.

The proposed reduction in democratic representation was regarded as detrimental, and questions were raised about the location of Area Committees or Panels, with an expectation that most would be situated in the north of the county. This could lead to significant travel requirements for members and the public. While digital solutions were acknowledged, concerns remained about accessibility and office locations.

Those present recognised the need to maximise potential benefits but cautioned  ...  view the full minutes text for item 56