STORY
The Government has delayed its decision on local government reorganisation in West Sussex, with a final announcement now expected in October 2026. Councils had previously expected ministers to decide between the locally submitted options during July.
West Sussex County Council said the Government had chosen to consult further on a modified version of a two unitary authority proposal. The change means local authorities will continue preparing for reorganisation while awaiting confirmation of the boundaries and structure that ministers intend to adopt.
The overall timetable is currently unchanged. Elections to shadow unitary authorities are expected in May 2027, with the new councils due to begin operating formally in April 2028.