| 12 May 2026 |
The government has launched a statutory consultation on proposals to change how local government is structured across Sussex.
Residents can now have their say on the future structure of local government in the East Sussex and Brighton & Hove areas. The consultation is open from Tuesday 12 May to Monday 15 June.
Local government reorganisation is a national programme led by government, aimed at simplifying council structures and ending the current two‑tier system in areas where responsibilities are split between county councils and district or borough councils.
Brighton & Hove City Council is already a single, unitary authority responsible for all local government services in the city. Elsewhere in Sussex, services are currently delivered through a two‑tier arrangement, which the government has committed to replacing.
Once the consultation is closed, government ministers will consider responses from statutory consultees and any other respondents, and use this feedback, alongside other evidence, to inform a final decision.
Councillor Bella Sankey, Leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, said: “This is a pivotal moment for Sussex. Local government reorganisation is a once‑in‑a‑generation
“This consultation gives residents across Brighton & Hove and Sussex the chance to have their voice heard and help shape what comes next.
“We are committed to working constructively with government and our neighbouring councils to secure the best possible outcome for residents and our wider communities, both now and in the future.”
More information
Further details of the proposal and how to take part are available on the GOV.UK website.
Paper copies will also be made available in libraries across Brighton & Hove.
A final decision from the Secretary of State is expected in Summer 2026. If any changes are approved, new councils would be expected to become fully operational from April 2028.
