Political leaders in Lancashire have struck a deal to create a combined authority next year. Lancashire County Council Leader Phillipa Williamson said it was "a significant step forward". The government is also said to be encouraging the county's politicians to "take strides" towards having an elected mayor for Lancashire.

Jim McMahon OBE MP, Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution, has told the leaders of Lancashire County Council, Blackburn with Darwen Council and Blackpool Council, that the statutory tests to implement the proposal have been met. The Government now intend to bring the matter before Parliament in the coming weeks.

The government’s decision to press ahead with Lancashire’s devolution deal has drawn a mixed response from some of the county’s dozen district council leaders – ranging from expressions of optimism to claims of betrayal.

A new day has dawned over Lancashire after the county was finally handed the devolved powers it has sought for so long - meaning more decisions will soon be taken at a local level.