Published: 16 July 2026

From: Democracy

Earlier today the Government announced that it has not yet arrived at a decision on Local Government Reorganisation in West Sussex. This is the second such delay we have seen. Following submission of proposals in September 2025, the government was due to make a decision in March 2026 but instead chose to consult on a modified proposal without providing supporting evidence. We are now faced with the prospect of a decision in the autumn – around a year after the proposals were submitted. The time frame for Local Government Reorganisation was already ambitious.

This latest delay begins to put at risk the safe and effective transition to unitary government in the time frame specified by government. We are seeking clarity about next steps. In the meantime we will continue to work with West Sussex councils to seek to mitigate the impact of this further delay.

Councillor Michael Jones

Leader of Crawley Borough Council

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