New timetable for changes to councils in West Sussex
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The government is now expected to decide on the future of councils in West Sussex between now and early 2027, with any new councils due to take over services in April 2029.
These proposals would replace the current county and district or borough council system with a single tier of unitary councils, each responsible for all council services in its area. You can read more on shapingwestsussex.gov.uk
The updated timetable follows discussions with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). Although no final decision has been made on the future council structure for West Sussex, a decision is expected to be based on the proposals that residents and local authorities have already been consulted on.
District and borough council elections will take place in May 2027 using existing boundaries. Elections to any new councils (Shadow Authority elections) would follow in May 2028, giving new authorities time to prepare before taking over services in April 2029.
The revised timetable gives councils more time to prepare, although the final arrangements remain uncertain. Councils across West Sussex are already working together to understand the opportunities and risks and prepare for the next steps.
As part of the timeline and separate from Local Government Reorganisation, the first election for a Mayor of Sussex and Brighton is still scheduled for May 2028. This is part of devolution – transferring powers and funding from government to the area – rather than the changes to local councils. The Mayor will focus on strategic priorities such as transport, education, economy and emergency services, not day-to-day council services.
Residents can continue to access council services as usual. In the meantime, the council will continue its preparations for local government reorganisation while remaining focused on delivering the services residents rely on every day. Once a decision is announced, it will work with its partners to implement it effectively and with minimal disruption to residents and staff.
The council will keep residents, communities and businesses informed as further information becomes available.