The Government has confirmed its preferred model for local government reorganisation across Greater Lincolnshire, with a new council structure expected to come into effect from April 2028, subject to the necessary legislation being approved by Parliament.
Under the approved plans, the current council structure will be replaced by two new unitary authorities:
- A City of Lincoln unitary council, covering Lincoln and neighbouring urban communities.
- A Lincolnshire unitary council, serving the county’s rural, coastal and market town communities.
North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire will remain as separate unitary authorities and are not affected by these changes.
The Government’s decision follows proposals submitted earlier this year and is intended to create a simpler system of local government, with each unitary council responsible for delivering all local authority services within its area.
Councillor Naomi Tweddle, Leader of City of Lincoln Council, welcomes the announcement and said:
“I am delighted that the Government has recognised Lincoln for the special place that it is.
“Lincoln is a growing city with a young demographic profile compared to much of the wider county. It is an economic powerhouse, driving investment, creating jobs and supporting businesses. It is also home to two universities, two colleges, thriving cultural attractions and internationally significant heritage.
“For more than a thousand years, Lincoln has been self-governed, so it is important that the Government has recognised the need to preserve our strong civic identity while creating a council that is best placed to meet the needs of our communities.
“At the same time, a Lincolnshire authority will ensure the county’s coastal, countryside, and market town communities have a council designed around their own priorities and identity. This approach recognises that the different places need different solutions, while ensuring both authorities are financially stable and able to deliver excellent public services.
“This proposal gives Lincoln the opportunity to shape its own future alongside neighbouring communities that share our economic links, transport connections and ambitions for growth. It creates a council with the scale to deliver high-quality services while ensuring decisions affecting our city are made by people who understand the opportunities and challenges we face.
“We will continue working with our partners to ensure a smooth transition while remaining full focused on delivering the services our residents rely on every day.”
What does this mean for landlords?
For now, there are no immediate changes for landlords, letting agents or residents. Existing councils will continue to provide services as normal while preparations for the new authorities take place.
Although the changes are still some time away, the new council structure could eventually affect how certain landlord services are delivered, including areas such as:
- Housing and private sector enforcement
- Property licensing schemes
- Planning and building control
- Environmental health
- Waste and recycling services
At this stage, there are no changes to existing policies or processes, and landlords should continue to deal with their current local authority in the usual way.
Shadow elections for the new councils are expected to take place in May 2027, with the new authorities due to formally assume responsibility in April 2028.
EMPO will continue to monitor the transition and keep members informed of any developments that may have an impact on landlords and property professionals across Lincolnshire.