Government launches second consultation on local government reorganisation in Sussex

The Government have launched an additional phase of consultation on the options for local government reorganisation in Sussex. Local councils in West Sussex are helping ensure residents, business, community groups and partners are aware of the opportunity to have their say.  

The consultation opens: 12 May  
The consultation closes: at 23:59 on 15 June  
Consultation link: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/modified-proposals-for-local-government-reorganisation-in-west-sussex/modified-proposals-for-local-government-reorganisation-in-west-sussex   

The second, technical consultation seeks feedback on two potential modifications on the proposals previously submitted by Sussex local authorities.  

In their revised West Sussex unitary arrangement option, Chichester District would be moved into a unitary authority alongside Mid Sussex District, Crawley Borough and Horsham District. The population would be around 566,000.  

A second West Sussex unitary authority would comprise of Arun District, Adur District and Worthing Borough. The population would be around 349,000.  

Proposals for East Sussex and Brighton & Hove would move the following wards from Lewes District (East Sussex) into a unitary authority with Brighton & Hove: East Saltdean & Telscombe Cliffs, Peacehaven West, Peacehaven East, Peacehaven North and Falmer Parish (from Kingston ward). The population would be around 308,000.  

An East Sussex unitary would then consist of Eastbourne Borough, Hastings Borough, Rother District, Wealden District and the remaining parts of Lewes District. The population would be around 537,000.  

Commenting on the government’s revised modifications to the original options, Cllr Robert Eggleston, Leader of Mid Sussex District Council, said:    

“Since the start of the reorganisation process, we’ve been fully committed to working closely with our partners across West Sussex to deliver the best outcomes for the people we serve. We will support this final consultation, which looks to refine the two unitary proposal which we originally supported, and look forward to the Government’s decision in the summer. The outcome must be based on the needs of our communities, delivering services for local people in the most effective way.”  

A decision is expected in the summer after the consultation period closes and the Government considers the new representations. The overall timescale for reorganisation remains, with elections to the new shadow unitary authorities expected in 2027 preparing for the new authorities to formally launch in 2028.  

Government is calling for further evidence and views to ensure that any reorganisation proposals taken forward reflect the identities, geography, and needs of local communities. Interested parties are encouraged to read the consultation materials and submit their responses directly to the government before the deadline. For West Sussex residents unable to complete the consultation via the digital links, hard copies will be available from council offices and all West Sussex libraries from 19 May.  

West Sussex councils are continuing to work together closely throughout this process working in strong partnership for our communities.  

Residents can find updates on the reorganisation process at: www.shapingwestsussex.org.   

For full consultation details and to submit a response once live, please visit:  
https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/modified-proposals-for-local-government-reorganisation-in-west-sussex/modified-proposals-for-local-government-reorganisation-in-west-sussex   

ENDS