Boston Borough Council backs 'A Greater Lincolnshire For All' Local Government Reorganisation proposal

A bold and ambitious proposal to reshape the future of local government has secured the partnership of a third council.

Boston Borough Council has become a partner with East Lindsey District Council and South Holland District Council in the development of a final proposal for Local Government Reorganisation in Greater Lincolnshire.

On July 10, ELDC and SHDC officially launched A Greater Lincolnshire for All which proposes reducing Greater Lincolnshire's 10 unitary and district/borough councils to two similar-sized councils:

• Northern Lincolnshire unitary - consisting of City of Lincoln, West Lindsey, North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire. Population: 531,000
   
• Southern Lincolnshire unitary - consisting of Boston Borough, East Lindsey, South Holland, South Kesteven and North Kesteven. Population: 574,000.

Boston Borough Council became an official partner in the development of the proposal following a vote at a Special Cabinet meeting last night (Thursday 31 July).

While some other Greater Lincolnshire councils are also developing proposals for consideration by Government, this is the only proposal that has the backing of three councils.

The 3 Councils will be working together with strategic partners, including the NHS and Police, to shape their proposal so it delivers the best outcomes possible for the people of Greater Lincolnshire.

Cllr Dale Broughton, Leader of Boston Borough Council, said: "This is the most sensible proposal being developed and most closely aligns with the criteria set out to Councils by Government.  

"As we collectively develop the final proposal, I very much look forward to hearing the views of those who attend our programme of engagement events so we can ensure our proposal to Government reflects the needs of our communities."

Cllr Craig Leyland, Leader of East Lindsey District Council, said: "We are delighted that Boston Borough Council has become a partner in A Greater Lincolnshire for All.

"Collectively  we believe our model for the future of Local Government is the right  one for Greater Lincolnshire. Having two similar sized authorities makes the delivery of essential services simpler for residents. It is more efficient and offers better value for money.   Of all the proposals being developed by Councils, it also most closely meets what Government has asked for in their criteria."

Cllr Nick Worth, Leader of South Holland District Council, added: "It's fantastic to have Boston Borough Council on board and we hope other councils will follow.

"The development of the proposal is all about working collaboratively, listening and engaging with residents, communities, parishes, businesses and all partners to help shape a proposal that delivers for the needs of us all in Greater Lincolnshire."

The proposal is underpinned by 10 public pledges made to the people and communities of Greater Lincolnshire that will act as the guiding principles as the area undergoes change:

1. Continuity of services as local government changes in Greater Lincolnshire
2. A commitment to all residents to keep them informed
3. Protecting frontline staff working across the area
4. Better value for money with savings directed to frontline services
5. Accessible council services for all, delivered through council hubs across the area
6. A single telephone number and website to access ALL council services in your area
7. Improved services for vulnerable residents including housing, adults' and children's services
8. Improved services for all children and young people, including education, training, jobs and transport
9. Greater local decision-making including for all town and parish councils and enhanced area-based governance
10. Closer relationships with all partners including the NHS, police, fire and rescue, education, and the voluntary sector to deliver better services

A comprehensive schedule of engagement has begun across the area, including an additional specific event in Boston

Virtual and in-person events are also taking place in Lincoln, Sleaford, Market Rasen, Spalding, Horncastle and Trusthorpe.

You can find out more about the events here.

You can also share your views about the proposal and Local Government Reorganisation in our short survey.

You can find out more about A Greater Lincolnshire For All here.