Council fully backs One East Sussex in government unitary consultation
Eastbourne Borough Council has confirmed its support for the creation of a single unitary authority for East Sussex after the government today launched a consultation about the future shape of councils in Sussex.
Eastbourne Borough Council is among the majority of the county's local authorities to endorse the One East Sussex proposal in September following local consultations earlier this year.
One East Sussex was developed collaboratively with all other East Sussex councils and advocates for replacing the six existing councils, Eastbourne Borough Council, Lewes District Council, East Sussex County Council, Hastings Borough Council, Rother District Council, and Wealden District Council, with a single unitary council following the existing county boundary.
Councillor Stephen Holt, Leader of Eastbourne Borough Council, said: β"Today's consultation opening is a crucial step forward, and our message to the government and our residents is crystal clear: One East Sussex is the best path for our county. It offers the financial resilience, service integration, and strong, unified voice needed to truly meet the challenges and unlock the opportunities of the 21st century.
β"Given the criteria set out by Westminster, I do believe that our One East Sussex model is the only model which can deliver significant economies of scale, increase accountability, reduce bureaucratic duplication, and free up vital funding to protect and improve frontline services. It was also clear in our consultations that this was the proposal that was most strongly supported by residents. We urge everyone to engage with the consultation and - when doing so - support One East Sussex."
The One East Sussex proposal also considered and rejected alternative options, including a two-unitary model and a boundary expansion by Brighton & Hove City Council, as they were deemed less effective and financially unviable.
It is expected the government will take the results of its consultation into consideration in making a final decision on which option to follow in spring 2026. Under this Devolution Priority Programme, a shadow election would then be elected in May 2027 with a new council fully operational by April 2028.
Councillor Holt added: "Government has been clear that it wants unitary councils, and a single unitary authority in East Sussex will put us in a stronger negotiating position to secure government funding, enabling us to fast-track essential infrastructure development, actively tackle climate change, and support the growth of skilled jobs and housing across the county."
βTo take part in the government consultation, visit:
Proposals for local government reorganisation
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