The first consultation event in Blackburn with Darwen to give residents the chance to find out more about the proposed devolution deal for Lancashire takes place today.

The drop-in session will be from 1pm to 3pm at Darwen Youth Centre, in Knott Street, Darwen

The will be a second one on Monday, January 15, from 1pm to 3pm, at Blackburn Central Library, in Town Hall Street, Blackburn

An eight-week online consultation on the proposal to create a new Combined County Authority for Lancashire was launched last month and ends on Friday, January 26.

The two events are drop-ins, which means residents do not have to attend for the full two hours.

It’s not necessary to register in advance, just turn up on the day.

The will give borough residents the opportunity to hear a presentation with more details on the devolution proposal and what this would mean for the whole of Lancashire, and for Blackburn with Darwen.

Residents will be able to give feedback on a number of important areas included in the proposal.

These include improving public transport, boosting economic prosperity, and improving employment and skills.

Views will also be sought on net zero and climate change, culture and tourism, and digital and cyber.

If the devolution proposal is implemented, existing funding and powers will move from the government in London to Lancashire.

The deal would not require any changes to the established county, borough, or district councils across the area, who will continue to deliver services such as bin collections and local libraries.

It would also not require an elected mayor as the CCA would be made up of existing elected councillors or require an extra charge on council tax.

Cllr Phil Riley, leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “I would urge our residents and business community to take part to make their views on the devolution proposal known.”