West Sussex reorganisation stalls as government decision delayed
Starting date pushed to 2029 amid unresolved plans.
The government has faced another setback in deciding how to reorganise local governance in West Sussex, postponing the start date to 2029. It remains one of only two areas without a resolved plan as efforts to transition from a two-tier system to unitary councils continue.
While the proposal for two unitary authorities covering Brighton and East Sussex has been approved, West Sussex's reorganisation remains undecided. Originally, the county suggested one unitary council for the entire area, whereas district councils proposed splitting into two. The government introduced an unpopular third option to redistribute areas.
Despite delays, councils are cooperating to ensure beneficial outcomes for residents, and the government promises £500,000 in funding shortly. Local elections will proceed as scheduled on current boundaries in May 2027, with shadow authorities set to prepare for their launch in May 2028.