Lewes District Council seeks formal confirmation from government that boundary changes will be reconsidered

In July, the government confirmed that these areas would be removed from Lewes district and become part of Brighton & Hove under Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) plans.

LDC said this was despite ‘clear opposition’ from residents, as well as the council’s objections to the proposals.

But on Monday, September 7, housing and communities secretary Angela Rayner confirmed that the government would pause and review plans for LGR in 14 areas, including East Sussex and Brighton.

The Leader of LDC, councillor Zoe Nicholson, said: “We welcome the government's decision to review these proposals, but it is important to recognise that the July decision remains in place and continues to create significant uncertainty for residents and communities in East Saltdean, Peacehaven and Telscombe.”

LDC said that while the government has announced a pause, its decision to ‘annex’ these areas in the district has not been formally withdrawn. LDC said, to protect its legal position, its letter to the government reiterates its concerns about the July decision, while questioning its lawfulness and seeking clarity on the scope and timing of the review.

Councillor Nicholson said: “We remain firmly opposed to the proposal to move these communities into Brighton & Hove. Throughout this process, we have made clear our view that residents should not be separated from the district with which they have strong historic, social and community ties. Our letter to government is intended to safeguard the council's position, seek greater clarity about the review process and ensure our objections are formally recorded.”

LDC said it will continue to engage with residents, local partners and the government as the review progresses and will give updates as more information becomes available.