Arun Council Plans To Extend Priorities Until 2028

Arun District Council is set to extend its current priorities until 2028 amid uncertainty over plans to reorganise local government in West Sussex.

Councillors voted seven to four to recommend extending the council's existing vision, which was due to run until 2026.

A full review could then take place after next year's local elections.

The move follows the government's decision to pause local government reorganisation while it carries out a review.

Arun District Council had previously expected to cease to exist in April 2028 as part of the proposed changes, but elections to the existing councils are now due to take place in May 2027.

A report to councillors said the uncertainty means only limited updates are being proposed at this stage.

The council's four main priorities are improving wellbeing, delivering the right homes in the right places, supporting the environment and fulfilling the area's economic potential.

Proposed changes include a new commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community, alongside updates relating to housing, the environment and accessibility.

Councillor Freddie Tandy said there was little point in carrying out a major review with elections only months away, as a new administration would be likely to set its own priorities.

He said extending the vision would give the next administration time to carry out a more extensive review.

The updated council vision will now go to a meeting of the Full Council for consideration.