Queensland state MP Lawrence Springborg, who spearheaded the move to forge the Liberals and Nationals in Queensland into one party, has announced he will quit state parliament at the next election.

The former leader has informed his local LNP branch that he will not contest the next election, due in early 2018.

"This decision gives a proper and respectful amount of time for those interested in representing the LNP, to talk with their families and put their names forward," Mr Springborg said in a statement.

"These are never easy decisions, but I believe that it is the right decision on balance."

Mr Springborg was narrowly defeated in a leadership spill by current LNP leader Tim Nicholls earlier this year.

The father of the LNP, Lawrence Springborg, is quitting state politics.

Mr Nicholls today paid tribute to the former leader, thanking him for his contribution to political and public life.

"I look forward to working alongside Lawrence as he continues to strongly represent the people of Southern Downs and be part of the team that is determined to see the LNP returned to government at the next election," Mr Nicholl said in a statement

There is speculation the LNP is clearing house before the next election, with Lockyer MP Ian Rickuss already announcing he will not contest the next election, and a question mark on whether party stalwart Jeff Seeney will follow suit.

Mr Springborg was the driving force behind amalgamating the Liberal and National Parties in Queensland in 2008, which gave conservative politics credibility in the state again after decades in the wilderness.

He led the party three times, however never won an election, although he served as health minister in the Newman government.

Recently federal Queensland senator George Brandis speculated the LNP would split back into its respective parties due to a change in the state's voting laws making the arrangement irrelevant.

Senator Brandis is also widely rumoured to be considering quitting despite being recently re-elected to a new six-year term, sparking speculation Mr Springborg could make a move to the federal level.