FYLDE and Wyre councils have just 12 weeks to put forward their proposals to avoid a merger with Blackpool.

A consultation exercise was launched last week by the boundary committee, which will decide on the new shape of local government if a referendum next year supports a regional assembly. Both councils fear that a local authority shake-up, which Blackpool supports, could see all or part of their areas come under the control of their larger neighbour. All submissions must be made to the review by September 8, with draft regulations published by December 2.

North West Liberal Democrat Euro MP, Chris Davies, said: "I strongly support the principle of having an elected North West Assembly, but this is the wrong way to go about it. We should not make the transfer of power from London dependent on the abolition of local councils that may be doing a perfectly good job."

Labour launched its campaign in favour of an assembly last week.