Issue - meetings

Members gave consideration to a report presented by the Head of Policy and Strategy, regarding Local Government Reorganisation. It was explained that the paper provided an overview on activity over the summer, building on that reported to Council on 7 July and 8 September 2025, in relation to Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), specifically the development of key materials and evidence which had been used by the Council to undertake ‘Supportive Engagement’ with all Greater Lincolnshire authorities.

The paper also provided a forward look at activities required to be undertaken by the Council in preparation for LGR following the Final Submission date in November, the statutory consultation and subsequent decision by Government in early to mid-Spring and beyond to transition and vesting day of the new authority(s).

In acknowledging the scale, complexity, and evolving nature of work related to the LGR programme, it was essential for West Lindsey to stay actively involved, both to meet government requirements and advocate for district interests. The paper requested approval for a budget to support these efforts and achieve the best outcomes for West Lindsey residents after the new unitary authority(s) Vesting Day.

It was considered that due to the extent and specialist nature of the ongoing work required, a total of £150,000 be approved, with delegated authority to spend on activities relating to LGR, up to the decision by ministers on the final geography. This would consist of a sum of up to £50,000 which could be drawn down through existing delegation, as detailed in the Council report on LGR on 7 July and a further £100,000 from the Project Investment Reserve.

Updates on the work being undertaken and activity against spend would be reported to Council as part of the on-going decision-making process relating to wider LGR programme of work and timeframes established by Government.

Members expressed their consternation at the costs involved with LGR, noting that the government had proposed the reorganisation on the basis that savings would be achieved. It was questioned whether Officers could share how much money had been spent to date across Lincolnshire, with Members commenting that the costs involved could not be in line with the expected efficiency savings. With the Committee concurring with the concerns raised, Members requested that Officers ascertain and present the collective spend on LGR across the county.

In reference to recent changes of Ministers at Whitehall, it was enquired whether there had been further updates in relation to LGR, to which it was confirmed that Senior Officials had confirmed the continuation of the work and a vesting day of 1 April 2028. It was also noted that efficiency savings may have been predicted over the long term, meaning current spends would be expected to balance out in savings over years to come.

Members noted the difference for large rural districts in comparison with urban localities, with there being unique challenges as to how to equitably provide for residents with differing requirements according to location.

Despite concerns raised, Committee Members recognised the importance  ...  view the full minutes text for item 42