Brighton & Hove expansion receives a mixed response

The government has confirmed a major local government reorganisation that will expand Brighton & Hove’s boundary to include East Saltdean, Telscombe and Peacehaven, bringing these communities together under a new local authority area from 1 April 2028.

A shadow council will be elected in May 2027 to oversee the transition, with existing services continuing as they do today until the new authority formally takes over.

Brighton & Hove City Council says it will work with Lewes District Council, East Sussex County Council, town and parish councils, residents and partners to make the change smooth and effective. Council leaders say the move reflects practical links between the areas, including shared roads, schools, workplaces and services, and offers an opportunity to improve outcomes for residents and businesses across the new footprint.

Leader Bella Sankey described the decision as important and said the council would build on the best services already provided across the authorities. Cabinet Member Jacob Allen said the focus is now on planning the delivery of around 700 services efficiently and in a way that responds to local needs.

East Sussex leaders and Lewes District Council have strongly objected to the plan. East Sussex County Council leader Cllr Andy Woolley said ministers should urgently reconsider, arguing that the county’s strong partnerships would be better served by staying together. He said it was “bitterly disappointing” that the government had split communities, especially East Saltdean, Peacehaven and Telscombe, whose residents had strongly opposed being moved. He also said East Sussex could have been stronger as a single unitary authority, with savings, established partnerships, and a distinct identity.

Lewes District Council leader Cllr Zoe Nicholson also condemned the decision, saying it was “against the public interest” and unsupported by credible evidence. She said public consultations consistently showed overwhelming support for remaining in the Lewes district and accused the government of ignoring local views and offering no transparency. Lewes says it is seeking urgent legal advice and will consider all options, including a legal challenge. The council also warned of significant financial costs, estimated at more than £3.5 million, from separating services currently shared with East Sussex County Council.

In summary, Brighton & Hove sees the change as a chance for better joined-up local government, while East Sussex and Lewes see it as a damaging and unpopular split of communities that should be reconsidered.