Fylde Borough Council was established on April 1, 1974, under the Local Government Act 1972, as a result of the merging of three former local authorities: Lytham St Annes Borough Council, Kirkham Urban District Council, and Fylde Rural District Council. The council’s main administrative building is the former Southdown Hydro Hotel, which was purchased in 1925 to serve as the town hall after the merger of Lytham and St Annes
The district was named Fylde after the coastal plan. It was awarded borough status from its creation, allowing the chair of the council to take the title of mayor. The coat of arms of the borough bear the motto of the former Fylde Rural District Council, “Gaudeat Ager” from Psalm 96: ‘Let the field (Fylde) be joyful’ – “Let Fylde Prosper”. The armorial bearings comprise a complete Achievement of Arms, that is – shield, crest and helm and mantling, supporters, badge and motto. They reflect the union of the three local authorities in the area: Lytham St Annes Borough Council, Kirkham Urban District Council and Fylde Rural District Council.
The Address is: Town Hall, South Promenade, Lytham St Annes, FY8 1LW
Fylde Borough Council, which styles itself “Fylde Council”, provides district-level services. County-level services are provided by Lancashire County Council. Most of the borough is also covered by civil parishes, which form a third tier of local government. The council has been under Conservative majority control since 2003. The first election to the council was held in 1973, initially operating as a shadow authority alongside the outgoing authorities before coming into its powers on 1 April 1974.
Party in control: Conservative 1974–1991, No overall control 1991–2003 and Conservative 2003–present. The role of mayor is largely ceremonial in Fylde. Political leadership is instead provided by the leader of the council.
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