History of Lea, Lancashire in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 18, 2026

Lea, Cottam, and Lea Town are villages forming the civil parish of Lea and Cottam within the City of Preston, Lancashire, England. The parish had a population of 5,962, which increased to 6,157 by 2011. It is a geographical area with a defined population within Lancashire.

April 1934: Parish Formation

On April 1, 1934, the parish of Lea was formed from part of the former parish of Lea Ashton Ingol and Cottam.

1938: Closure of Lea Road Railway Station

In 1938, the Lea Road railway station, which had served the area, closed.

1974: Part of Borough of Preston

In 1974, Lea parish became part of the Borough of Preston after the abolition of Preston Rural District.

2001: Census Results

According to the last census in 2001, over 83% of the population considered themselves Christian, and 11.5% were retired, one of the highest percentages in the city.

2002: Preston Becomes a City

In 2002, the Borough of Preston was granted city status.

2011: Lea Town Population

In 2011, Lea Town had a population of 291.

2011: Population Increase

In 2011, the population of Lea and Cottam civil parish increased to 6,157.

2024: Part of Preston Constituency

Starting with the 2024 General Election, the area became part of the Preston parliamentary constituency, previously being part of the Fylde constituency.