Government delays decision on new councils for West Sussex
The government has today confirmed a further delay to its decision on local government reorganisation for West Sussex. We now expect the decision in October 2026.
Our understanding is that the overall government timetable for reorganisation remains, with elections to a new shadow council or councils expected in May 2027. The shadow council will manage the transition to the new arrangements. The new council will formally take on responsibilities for delivering services in April 2028.
Until that point, all eight existing councils in West Sussex will continue to operate as usual and deliver their services without any immediate changes for residents or partners.
Detailed work to prepare for the government decision has been undertaken with a strong collaborative approach between all West Sussex Councils. Following this further delay, we will consider the delivery implications, continuing to work closely together on our next steps.
Further information on how the transition will be managed will be provided as plans develop. Councils will continue to work closely with stakeholders to shape how the new council will operate and how services will be delivered.
Cllr Martin Lury, Leader of Arun District Council commented:
“While we recognise the need for government to fully consider all the evidence and representations submitted before reaching a final decision on local government reorganisation in West Sussex, we are disappointed that there will be a further delay. Councils have been working at pace on what is already a highly ambitious programme, and it is frustrating that we remain without certainty almost a year after proposals were submitted.
“With a decision now not expected until October 2026 and shadow elections scheduled for May 2027, the time available to plan and deliver a safe and effective transition is becoming increasingly compressed. We will continue to work constructively with our partners across West Sussex, but we are seeking greater clarity from government on the next steps and how the risks created by this delay will be addressed.”
Councils across West Sussex remain committed to keeping residents and partners informed throughout the reorganisation process.