Local Government Reorganisation report to be published
10 March 2025
Along with other councils of Hampshire and the Solent, we have jointly developed an interim plan in response to the government's invitation to explore local government reorganisation (LGR).
The plan involves 15 councils, including Hampshire County Council, district and borough councils, and the unitary authorities of Southampton, Portsmouth, and the Isle of Wight.
Cllr Jill Cleary, our Leader, said: "New Forest District Council firmly believes that any future local government reorganisation must reflect the distinct identity, needs, and aspirations of our communities. The New Forest is a special place with a unique history, strong communities and a focus on the future. We are clear that proposals for local government in our area must build on our strengths, not force us into an artificial structure that does not reflect our local identity."
"Although we do not feel that local government reorganisation is necessary to deliver growth and prosperity for the area, we have been working together as requested by government and I will be recommending the interim report to Council for their consideration before Cabinet on 21 March. There is more work to be done to develop a proposal and we know there will be different views from councils and communities."
"If local government reorganisation is unavoidable, I believe the best model for the forest is a rural-focused unitary council, bringing together the New Forest area with mid-Hampshire to form a sustainable and balanced authority that respects our heritage, supports our economy, protects our unique environment and can deliver high-quality local services building on our strengths in partnership working. We will not support any option that splits our historic communities or forces us into an urban-led model."
You will be able to view the report on the agenda for Special Council Meeting, Council - Thursday, 20th March, 2025 6.30 pm, when it is published on 12 March 2025.
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