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On 25 March 2026, government announced that it is not ready to make a decision about the future shape of Local Government in East Sussex, but will instead consult on a variation of the One East Sussex proposal which was submitted in September 2025.
The consultation will take place after local elections in May 2026. We await further detail from government on the specifics of the consultation.
In November 2025, the government held its consultation on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in East Sussex. The consultation was open to all residents, businesses, voluntary groups, and local organisations.
The government consulted on two options for East Sussex:
The consultation closed on Sunday 11 January 2026.
The councils in East Sussex want to listen to and work with local people, residents, stakeholders, and partners whilst making these changes.
Conversations with local communities, partners and businesses will be vital in shaping a new council and what people would like to see from it.
In preparing the One East Sussex proposal there were public surveys, focus groups and discussion with partner organisations.
A public survey ran across the county in May and June 2025 – thank you to everyone who responded. Here is a summary of the results:
Hastings Borough Council also undertook further consultation on options, which you can view on their page about LGR and devolution:
Lewes District Council also carried out a survey in response to Brighton & Hove City Council’s proposal to expand the city boundaries into Kingston ward, East Saltdean, Telscombe, Peacehaven and Newhaven.
This took place in July and August 2025. You can view the results on Lewes District Council’s site: