North East Lincolnshire Council has confirmed it will oppose the government’s proposed changes to local authority boundaries.
The proposed form part of a wider ambition to abolish two-tier council structures – where areas are governed by both a district or borough council, such as North East Lincolnshire Council, and an upper-tier authority like Lincolnshire County Council.
The decision marks a shift in stance after Council Leader, Councillor Philip Jackson, previously wrote to the government in support of a reorganisation that would see Lincolnshire’s ten councils reduced to just two. In his letter, he stated the council had the “support and capacity” to proceed – despite not consulting opposition parties beforehand. His approach drew strong criticism from other political groups and triggered a special meeting to address concerns.
At the latest full council meeting, members voted in favour of retaining North East Lincolnshire’s current administrative boundaries. However, the council confirmed it will continue to “explore opportunities” for collaboration with North Lincolnshire and Lincolnshire County Councils on any future Greater Lincolnshire proposals submitted to government.
A cross-party working group, made up of the four main group leaders on NELC, will now prepare a full proposal ahead of the November deadline.
According to a council spokesperson, the report will highlight how, as a smaller unitary authority, NELC is able to build close, effective working relationships that support its strategic vision. It will also demonstrate how such partnerships have already attracted significant investment, and draw on the borough’s strong community ties and the progress being made to tackle health inequalities, improve housing, regenerate the town centre, and support children, young people, and adults.
Councillor Philip Jackson, said: “I would like to give recognition to my fellow group leaders. Cllrs Clough, Aisthorpe, Holland and I have worked productively with officers to fully examine what we believe to be the best way forward.
“Crucially this is about the future growth and improvement of North East Lincolnshire, its economy and its people, whilst working within the Greater Lincolnshire footprint, to provide support, opportunity and respond positively to challenge.
“We have clearly shown how a smaller unitary with unique characteristics, challenges and geography can attract public and private sector investment that can and is enabling significant positive change. We firmly believe it is our size and drive that has achieved this and we want the opportunity, as a council, to continue this work, which will be of benefit to everyone locally, regionally and nationally.”
A public engagement exercise will take place as part of the process.
Part of the Gi Grimsby News team since 2020.