Government signals next steps for Sussex LGR

The government has announced it intends to proceed with local government reorganisation (LGR) for Brighton & Hove and East Sussex.  

They will set out plans for how they want the proposals to move forward, and local authorities will have 21 days to make further representations. 

An update on the decision is expected before Christmas. 

Local elections will go ahead in May 2027 on existing council boundaries. New councils will be established for 2029, with elections to shadow councils in May 2028.

Read more about the government’s LGR announcement on GOV.UK.

In response to the announcement, Councillor Bella Sankey, leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, said:

“We welcome that the government has confirmed it is minded to proceed with the decision it made earlier this year for Brighton & Hove to merge with East Saltdean, Peacehaven and Telscombe. Bringing our communities together reflects how people live, and it will give residents living to the East of our current boundary greater say over the services they already use. 

“We further welcome the government’s cast-iron commitment to preserving our city status. Brighton & Hove is a globally recognised city with a proud history and an exciting future.

“We want to make sure that this change is delivered as smoothly as possible. So we will now be writing to government to make the case that Brighton & Hove City Council should be considered a continuing local authority rather than setting up a brand new council with the additional complexity that would come with that. 

“We hope to work constructively with partners in East Sussex to deliver these changes for the benefit of all.”