Devolution and local government reorganisation
On this page:
Government consultation
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has launched a consultation on Hampshire and The Solent Devolution.
The consultation specifically asks about:
- the proposed geography
- governance arrangements
- supporting the economy
- improving social outcomes
- local government services
- improving the local natural environment
- supporting the needs of local communities and reflect local identity
The consultation runs for 8 weeks from 10am, 17 February 2025 to 11.59pm on 13 April 2025.
Background about devolution and reorganisation
The government announced a major programme of reform for local government (December 2024) including 2 related but separate initiatives: devolution, and local government reorganisation.
Devolution is when the government transfers certain powers and responsibilities to local councils to make more decisions locally by establishing regional Mayoral Strategic Authorities
Local government reorganisation (LGR) means changing how councils are structured, ending two-tier county and district council arrangements by reorganising local government to create new unitary local authorities, possibly merging councils, or changing who is responsible for specific services.
Hampshire County Council, Isle of Wight Council, Portsmouth City Council, and Southampton City Council have been accepted by government (5 February 2025) to join the Devolution Priority Programme.
These councils represent over 2 million residents and are committed to bringing the benefits of devolution, including local decision-making, economic growth, and innovation.
For our region, this will likely mean a new strategic regional Mayor for Southampton, Portsmouth, Hampshire, and the Isle of Wight.
The government has now formally invited us to work with other councils in Hampshire and the Solent to develop a proposal for local government reorganisation. Read the LGR invitation to local authorities in two-tier areas - GOV.UK
The Leader of New Forest District Council, and our chief executive and senior officers, are involved in discussions with other councils on shaping these proposals to ensure the best outcomes for the district.
Outline plans for local government reorganisation are expected by March 2025, with more detailed proposals in the autumn.
Past news items and statements
Leader of New Forest District Council's statement in response to Hampshire Devolution announcement.
Read our December 2024 response to devolution discussion
There is more information about devolution and local government reorganisation on the Local Government Associations's website
Share this page
