DUSK will set on local government in Allerdale this weekend as the county officially see’s in a new council and says goodbye to the district and county councils.

Allerdale Borough Council has served the community for almost half a century and has been a constant in the lives of everyone who lives in the borough, it disbanding on April,1 will mark a historic moment for the people, staff and communities the council has served.

Speaking at the last ever full council meeting earlier this month, Leader of Allerdale Borough Council, Cllr Mike Johnson said: “After more than 48 years, this is the last time all of us as councillors will sit together to debate and make decisions on our services.

“Over that time the dedication that councillors and officers have shown to working for the good of the people of Allerdale has not changed. And we have achieved some great things.

“I know that in 1974 our predecessors faced similar challenges that the Shadow Councillors currently face at Cumberland when bringing then councils together to form Allerdale. But in a relatively short space of time, come together they did, and whilst the local rivalries between towns and areas remained, we have always fought for what’s best for our area.

“I’m confident that we leave Allerdale in the best position possible to guarantee future success for Cumberland. Since its creation in 1974, Allerdale has had 48 Mayors, including three Mayors who have had dual terms and one who has been the mayor twice but years apart.

From Saturday, April 1 Cumbria’s seven existing councils will be abolished and replaced by two new unitary authorities: Cumberland Council and Westmorland & Furness Council.

Cumberland Council will govern Carlisle, Allerdale and Copeland with all the responsibilities and decision-making powers of both a county council and borough council.

Cumberland now has 46 elected shadow authority councillors, who will all be set to govern the new authority from Saturday.

As well as continuing the duties of Allerdale such as overseeing planning applications, bin collections and licencing, the new Cumberland Authority will also take on many duties of the current Cumbria County Council such as education, highways and children’s services.

Here are the contact details for the new council (from April 1): How to get in touch: • Online: www.cumberland.gov.uk • Telephone: 0300 373 3730 (main number) and Highways Hotline: 0300 373 3736 • Facebook: @CumberlandCouncil1 • Twitter: CumberlandCoun • Instagram: @cumberlandcouncil1 • In person - you will still be able to access all your services from the same locations Sign up for the latest news and updates at www.cumberland.gov.uk/signup