Fylde Borough Council was formed on 1 April 1974 under the Local Government Act 1972, through the merger of three former authorities: Lytham St Annes Borough Council, Kirkham Urban District Council, and Fylde Rural District Council. The new authority took its name from the Fylde, the broad coastal plain that defines the area geographically and historically. From its creation, the district was granted borough status, allowing the chair of the council to take the honorary title of mayor.
The council’s headquarters are located at the Town Hall on South Promenade in Lytham St Annes — a building that was originally the Southdown Hydro Hotel. The property was purchased in 1925 to serve as the administrative centre for the newly merged Lytham St Annes Borough Council and has remained the seat of local government ever since.
Fylde’s coat of arms incorporates elements representing the three former local authorities that came together in 1974. The borough retained the motto of the former Fylde Rural District Council — “Gaudeat Ager” — from Psalm 96, which translates as “Let the field (Fylde) be joyful” or “Let Fylde prosper.” The full heraldic achievement includes a shield, crest, mantling, supporters, badge, and motto, symbolising the unity of Lytham St Annes, Kirkham, and Fylde Rural in one administrative body.
Fylde Borough Council, often referred to simply as Fylde Council, provides district-level services including planning, waste collection, housing, and leisure. Lancashire County Council oversees county-level services such as education, highways, and social care. Much of the borough is also covered by civil parishes, which act as a third tier of local government, maintaining strong community links.
Since its establishment, the council has held regular elections, with the first taking place in 1973 when the authority operated in a “shadow” capacity prior to officially assuming powers in 1974. Political control has alternated over the years: the Conservatives led from 1974 to 1991, followed by a period of no overall control until 2003, after which the Conservatives regained and have since maintained a majority. While the role of mayor remains largely ceremonial, political leadership is exercised by the elected leader of the council.
Address:
Town Hall, South Promenade, Lytham St Annes, FY8 1LW
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