Main milestone reached as ‘Stronger Hampshire’ native authorities reorganisation proposal submitted to authorities

East Hampshire District Council has as we speak submitted its proposal for native authorities reorganistion to central authorities.

This proposal recommends creating 4 new unitary councils – three on the Hampshire and Solent mainland and one on the Isle of Wight.  

This was mentioned by councillors at Full Council on Thursday twenty fifth September and Cabinet members agreed to submit the proposal earlier as we speak.  

The change is a part of a nationwide transfer by Government to exchange two-tier native authorities buildings (i.e. county councils and district/borough councils) with fewer unitary (all-purpose) councils that ship all native authorities companies.

Across Hampshire and the Solent space, this includes 15 councils being changed by a smaller variety of unitary councils that ship all companies. 

The proposal, developed in partnership with Hampshire County Council, goals to ship less complicated, stronger and safer native councils for the long run: offering the very best worth, better native accountability and dependable companies for residents and their households for generations to return. What’s extra, the plan guarantees to unlock recent alternatives for innovation and progress, to make councils stronger and able to result in actual, constructive adjustments throughout communities, that individuals will really see and really feel of their on a regular basis lives.  

This bid helps the Government’s progress and housing ambitions by proposing 4 unitary authorities that streamline governance, unlock land for improvement, and allow sooner, extra environment friendly housing supply throughout Hampshire and the Solent Area. 

The wants and aspirations of native folks lie on the coronary heart of the brand new four-council design, aiming to create councils which are really responsive, environment friendly, financially secure and centered on what issues most to folks throughout the realm. 

The proposal builds from a powerful basis, backed by professional recommendation, intensive engagement with communities and trusted organisations, and offers a clean transition to a brand new mannequin of native authorities with actual advantages for residents. Four unitary councils are the correct match – sufficiently big to ship robust companies however centered sufficient to remain related to native communities. It’s the most secure and handiest strategy to handle change and unlock long-term enhancements. 

Cllr Richard Millard, Leader of East Hampshire District Council, stated: “Today marks a serious step ahead. Our proposal for a four-unitary mannequin is daring, forward-thinking, and constructed on strong proof. 

“This plan unlocks round £50 million in annual financial savings, safeguards our most susceptible residents, and lays the inspiration for financial progress and innovation. 

“I care deeply that our communities are empowered and this proposal outlines how we’ll obtain that in order that in addition to delivering very important companies and stimulating progress, we may even be capable of be sure that the ‘little things’ that matter to our residents don’t get misplaced.  

“I’m proud to be putting forward a credible, ambitious, evidence-led proposal and I’m eager to hear the government’s response.” 

Councillor Nick Adams-King, Leader of Hampshire County Council, stated: “This submission is the results of detailed evaluation, cautious collaboration, and a steadfast dedication to Hampshire’s future.  

“We’ve listened to the various voices from throughout our space, making certain our proposal displays the perception and priorities of residents, companions, and native organisations.  

“By drawing on professional recommendation and broad engagement, we’re assured that the mannequin we’ve set out will hold very important companies robust, empower native decision-making, and supply a secure basis to remodel and enhance the best way councils work for residents by means of new alternatives for funding and financial progress in native areas.  

“Above all, our approach is about building a resilient, forward-looking system of local government that puts residents and their families first and secures the best outcomes for our communities – today and for generations to come”

Next steps:  

Central Government will resolve which native authorities mannequin(s) to seek the advice of the general public about later this 12 months, earlier than making its last resolution, which is anticipated in 2026. 

For extra info on LGR and to learn our proposal go to our web site www.easthants.gov.uk/lgr