Following the government’s decision on local government reorganisation in July 2026, Chief Executives across Lancashire have responded to the Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) on some of the arrangements for the four unitary councils in Lancashire. At this point MHCLG state that the names of the new council’s will be:
North Lancashire – Lancaster, Preston and Ribble Valley
South Lancashire – Chorley, South Ribble and West Lancashire
Fylde Coast – Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre
Pennine Lancashire – Blackburn with Darwen, Burnley, Hyndburn, Pendle and Rossendale.
The names of the new councils will be included in a legal document called the Structural Changes Order.
However, Lancaster, Preston and Ribble Valley district councils have achieved a consensus that an alternative name should be put forward for consideration which is:
Lancaster, Preston & Ribble Valley
Councillor Caroline Jackson, Leader of Lancaster City Council, said:
The proposed name is one that people will immediately recognise and reflects our desire to create a strong, recognisable identity from the outset.
"It was particularly important to us that Lancaster's heritage and historic role as the county town of Lancashire was recognised. Preston and Ribble Valley also have rich histories, proud identities and huge potential of their own.
“The proposed name reflects the area's shared heritage while recognising the distinctive contribution each place makes to the new authority. Whether you're a resident, business owner, investor or visitor, the name gives a clear sense of who we are and the area we represent, and that can only help us promote the area and make the most of future opportunities.
Cllr Matthew Brown, Leader of Preston City Council said:
As a working title, North Lancashire was fine temporarily, but it is important that we have a name that reflects the significant importance of place and the combined, culturally rich and historic landscape of the three districts. It is crucial that we retain strong national recognition as the new unitary authority as a key visitor destination that is instantly identifiable, and to remain a strong and leading economic driving force for Lancashire.
Simon Hore, Ribble Valley Borough Council Leader said:
While it’s a bit of a mouthful, it is a more accurate and descriptive name and one that reflects all the partners fairly. Throughout the LGR process Ribble Valley Borough Council has made it clear that one of our priorities was to ensure that Ribble Valley’s identity was protected and remained strong. Ribble Valley has built a growing reputation, particularly when it comes to tourism and the rural economy, and is known throughout the country.
“Retaining Ribble Valley’s name, and those of the other historic and economic centres involved, ensures strong geographic recognition within Lancashire, the region, across the UK and beyond. North Lancashire feels nebulous and undefined. It was used as a ‘holding title’ awaiting a more accurate and descriptive name.
