HYNDBURN will be one of the most forward thinking councils in the country when it introduces a new system of government this year, according to its leader Peter Britcliffe.

Plans for what will be the most radical shake-up of local government in the borough for more than 100 years have been discussed at an extraordinary meeting of the council.

Coun Britcliffe stressed the new system must be open, accessible and something in which the community can participate.

A new draft constitution was agreed by councillors - which will see the introduction of a cabinet-style format in a bid to make the council more efficient and democratic.

But there were concerns about boundaries for area councils which are aimed at giving local people more of a say.

A referendum will be held on the same day as the local elections in May about their precise boundaries.

There will also be a question asking people if they want to change the borough's name to something such as Accrington and district.

The first area council meeting will take place in Oswaldtwistle on February 29.

Coun Britcliffe said: "Whatever system we have it has to be open. It has to be accessible and something the community can be involved with. That is why there should be area councils so people can get involved in decisions which affect them in their community.

"We will be one of the most forward thinking councils in the country."

The new constitution will come into force in May but there will be a transitional period until October 1 when all the new proposals will be put into place.

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