The UK Government has paused the Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) programme in 14 areas, including both West and East Sussex, sparking a sharp response from local council leaders.
The decision to halt the programme has been met with “frustration” and “disappointment” from West Sussex authorities, who have spent the last 18 months preparing for a transition to a unitary system. The reorganisation was intended to simplify the current two-tier structure of county and district councils into a single authority for the region.
In a joint response, West Sussex councils highlighted the significant time and resources already dedicated to the plan. For residents in Bognor Regis and the wider county, the pause means that the current council setup will remain in place for the foreseeable future, with no immediate change to how local services are delivered.
Boundary concerns in East Sussex
While leaders in West Sussex focused on the impact of the delay on long-term planning, the reaction in East Sussex has focused on the opportunity to revisit specific boundary disputes.
Zoe Nicholson, the leader of Lewes District Council, stated that while the pause brings “more uncertainty” to the region, it may allow for a rethink on certain proposals. Specifically, there have been long-standing discussions regarding the potential transfer of East Saltdean and Peacehaven into the jurisdiction of Brighton & Hove, a move that could now be reconsidered during the government’s review period.
According to West Sussex County Council, the LGR programme is being held back as part of a wider government review into local government structures. The programme had been designed to streamline decision-making and potentially reduce costs by merging various council functions.
For now, Bognor Regis residents will continue to be served by both West Sussex County Council and Arun District Council. Public services, including waste collection, social care, and local planning, are expected to continue as “business as usual” while the national review is carried out.