
Major milestone reached
as ‘Stronger Hampshire’ local government reorganisation proposal
submitted to government
East
Hampshire District Council has today submitted its proposal for
local government reorganistion to central government.
This
proposal recommends creating four new unitary councils – three on
the Hampshire and Solent mainland and one on the Isle of Wight.
This
was discussed by councillors at Full Council on Thursday 25th September and Cabinet members agreed to submit
the proposal earlier today.
The
change is part of a national move by Government to replace two-tier
local government structures (i.e. county councils and
district/borough councils) with fewer unitary (all-purpose)
councils that deliver all local government services.
Across
Hampshire and the Solent area, this involves 15 councils being
replaced by a smaller number of unitary councils that deliver all
services.
The
proposal, developed in partnership with Hampshire County Council,
aims to deliver simpler, stronger and more secure local councils
for the future: providing the best possible value, greater local
accountability and reliable services for residents and their
families for generations to come. What’s more, the plan promises to
unlock fresh opportunities for innovation and growth, to make
councils stronger and ready to bring about real, positive changes
across communities, that people will actually see and feel in their
everyday lives.
This
bid supports the Government’s growth and housing ambitions by
proposing four unitary authorities that streamline governance,
unlock land for development, and enable faster, more efficient
housing delivery across Hampshire and the Solent Area.
The needs and aspirations of local people
lie at the heart of the new four-council design, aiming to create
councils that are truly responsive, efficient, financially stable
and focused on what matters most to people across the area.
The
proposal builds from a strong foundation, backed by expert advice,
extensive engagement with communities and trusted organisations,
and provides a smooth transition to a new model of local government
with real benefits for residents. Four unitary councils are the
right fit - big enough to deliver strong services but focused
enough to stay connected to local communities. It’s the safest and
most effective way to manage change and unlock long-term
improvements.
Cllr
Richard Millard, Leader of East Hampshire District Council, said:
“Today marks a major step forward. Our proposal for a four-unitary
model is bold, forward-thinking, and built on solid evidence.
“This
plan unlocks around £50 million in annual savings, safeguards our
most vulnerable residents, and lays the foundation for economic
growth and innovation.
“I
care deeply that our communities are empowered and this proposal
outlines how we will achieve that so that as well as delivering
vital services and stimulating growth, we will also be able to
ensure that the ‘little things’ that matter to our residents don’t
get lost.
“I’m
proud to be putting forward a credible, ambitious, evidence-led
proposal and I’m eager to hear the government’s response.”
Councillor
Nick Adams-King, Leader of Hampshire County Council, said: “This
submission is the result of detailed analysis, careful collaboration,
and a steadfast commitment to Hampshire’s future.
“We’ve
listened to the diverse voices from across our area, ensuring our
proposal reflects the insight and priorities of residents,
partners, and local organisations.
“By
drawing on expert advice and broad engagement, we are confident
that the model we’ve set out will keep vital services strong,
empower local decision-making, and provide a stable foundation to
transform and improve the way councils work for residents through
new opportunities for investment and economic growth in local
areas.
“Above
all, our approach is about building a resilient, forward-looking
system of local government that puts residents and their families
first and secures the best outcomes for our communities - today and
for generations to come”
Next steps:
Central
Government will decide which local government model(s) to consult
the public about later this year, before making its final decision,
which is expected in 2026.
For
more information on LGR and to read
our proposal visit our website
through the button below or use this link www.easthants.gov.uk/lgr
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