The Government has launched a further consultation on plans to reorganise local government across Sussex.
Following feedback from a previous consultation, which opened in November, ministers are now seeking views on two additional options. Both are based on changes to proposals already submitted by local authorities in Sussex.
The consultation runs until 23.59 on 15 June.
In West Sussex, the new option would create two unitary authorities. One would bring together Chichester District, Crawley Borough, Horsham District and Mid Sussex District, serving around 566,000 people. The second would combine Arun District, Adur District and Worthing Borough, with an estimated population of 349,000.
A further option has also been put forward for East Sussex and Brighton & Hove. Under that model, Brighton & Hove would be combined with parts of Lewes District, including East Saltdean and Telscombe Cliffs, Peacehaven West, Peacehaven East, Peacehaven North and Falmer Parish. A second authority would cover Eastbourne, Hastings, Rother, Wealden and the remaining areas of Lewes District.
All previous proposals remain under consideration, including a single unitary authority for West Sussex and alternative two-authority models.
Responses will be reviewed by ministers ahead of a final decision expected this summer.
Cllr Adrian Moss, Leader of Chichester District Council, said:
“The Government has reviewed the feedback from its previous consultation for local government reorganisation in Sussex and has asked for further evidence and views to ensure that any proposals taken forward reflect the identities, geography and needs of local communities.
“As people will be aware, we have worked closely with all West Sussex councils to develop proposals that meet the Government’s criteria, and these were included in the first consultation. This was shaped by extensive engagement with residents, businesses, community groups, and council staff.
“We are now encouraging people to take part in this further consultation to make their views known on the additional options that are now being considered. This is the final chance for people to have their say before the Government decides on how local government will be reorganised within Sussex.”
Hard copies are available at council offices and will be available at West Sussex libraries from 19 May.
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