Initial plan approved for Local Government Reorganisation in East Sussex

The plan is required after the government announced last month that the East Sussex area would be part of a Devolution Priority Programme.

The document outlines an initial proposal to create one new unitary authority based on existing county boundaries, following the abolishment of the six existing councils in East Sussex.

The interim plan - which was jointly compiled by Eastbourne Borough, Lewes District, Hastings Borough, Rother District, Wealden District and East Sussex County councils - states that funding for the organisation must come from government as it cannot be met from existing councils' budgets.

Councillor Stephen Holt, Leader of Eastbourne Borough Council, said: "It is important to stress that nothing is set in stone at this stage and, most importantly, all residents will have the opportunity to have their say over the coming months. This is a significant shift in local government, and I want to ensure that residents are fully aware and part of the process."

"Feedback from the public consultation will help inform our final plans which have to be submitted to government in six months' time. We will also consult on whether or not residents would like to see the formation of a Town Council." 

A consultation on the interim plan will be held for residents across East Sussex over the coming months.

The six councils must submit final, detailed proposals in September.

If approved, a new shadow council would be elected in May 2027 and the unitary authority would take over in April 2028, when existing councils in East Sussex would cease to exist.

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