Government pauses Local Government Reorganisation programme – statement from The Leader of Arun District Council
The government has confirmed that it is pausing its proposals for Local Government Reorganisation in West Sussex while it carries out a wider review of the programme. No timeline has been given to local authorities as to when the review is to be carried out or when it will be concluded.
Following updated legal advice, previously announced decisions affecting Essex, Hampshire, Norfolk and Suffolk have been withdrawn. The government will also reassess proposals in several other areas, including West Sussex, with further progress put on hold until the review is complete.
West Sussex councils have reacted to the latest development with disappointment that a process that has been ongoing for more than 18 months has yet to be decided upon.
Councillor Martin Lury, Leader of Arun District Council, said:
“The government, including Angela Rayner in Parliament yesterday, keeps reiterating how frustrated West Sussex Leaders must be and then compound it by delaying the decision again. March and July this year were due to be decision dates, and we were told just last Wednesday that a decision would be forthcoming in October. This latest pause further increases uncertainty for both Arun residents and staff and is most unwelcome. “
Further details on the transition will be shared as plans develop. In the meantime, all eight existing councils in West Sussex will continue to operate as usual, with no immediate changes to services for residents or partners.