West Sussex Pushes For Single Council In Local Government Shake-Up

West Sussex County Council has confirmed it wants one single unitary authority to run all local services in the county, saying it would save £50 million a year and protect vital services for vulnerable residents.

The council’s preferred option is part of a joint business case developed with all eight councils in West Sussex.

The plans will now be sent to government this week, ahead of a final decision expected in spring 2026.

Leader Cllr Paul Marshall says a single authority would allow the county to invest millions in public services while avoiding the disruption that splitting services, like children’s and adults’ social care, would cause under a two-council model.

The plan also draws on feedback from 9,000 residents, who emphasised the need for local voices and councils that understand the unique needs of their communities.

Cllr Marshall has also raised concerns about Brighton & Hove’s separate proposal, saying it lacks detail and hasn’t been properly shared with West Sussex, making it impossible to assess its impact.

In addition, the council is asking the government to postpone county council elections in May 2026, arguing that holding them during the shake-up would cause confusion, voter fatigue, and unnecessary expense.

Whatever the government decides, West Sussex councils say they will continue working together to deliver the best outcome for residents.