The proposed changes would see the current 15 councils across the Hampshire and Solent area replaced by four new unitary councils (three on the mainland, and the Isle of Wight remaining a standalone council) – each responsible for delivering all local services.
This would mean fewer layers of bureaucracy, better value for money, and services that are easier to access and more responsive to the needs of local people and communities.
A vision for the future
The proposed unitary councils would be:
- North and Mid Hampshire (Basingstoke and Deane, East Hampshire, Hart, Rushmoor, Winchester)
- South-West Hampshire and Solent (Eastleigh, New Forest, Southampton, Test Valley)
- South-East Hampshire and Solent (Fareham, Gosport, Havant, Portsmouth)
- Isle of Wight (remaining as a standalone unitary council)
These proposals are based on extensive data analysis, community feedback, and public sector insight – to create a model that is fair, financially sustainable, and fit for the future.
Councillor Nick Adams-King, Leader of Hampshire County Council, said: “Government wants all areas of the country to become unitary councils, and we have a duty to secure the best possible future for the people we serve through councils that work efficiently and effectively. Working closely with East Hampshire District Council colleagues, we’ve carefully examined the evidence, listened to local voices, and developed proposals that strike the right balance – protecting local identity, simplifying how local government works while protecting essential services, and ensuring every community is heard.
“These plans would not only make councils easier to access and more responsive but also deliver around £50 million in annual savings – money to help protect vital services, especially for those in greatest need.
“This is a pivotal moment for our area. We want to hear from residents, businesses, communities and organisations we work with across Hampshire and the Solent area. Your views will help shape a model of local government that is simpler, stronger, and secure – the best possible design that’s built to last and built for you.”
Leader of East Hampshire District Council, Councillor Richard Millard said: “Local government plays a crucial role in people’s everyday lives, from emptying the bins and educating children right through to protecting our most vulnerable residents.
“That’s why it’s vital that residents, businesses, community groups, sports clubs, councillors and all other stakeholders have their say on shaping how these services are delivered in the future.
“With pressure growing on public finances and the Government urging councils to reinvent themselves, we need a model that delivers excellent services in a way that’s financially sustainable and easier to access. These proposals aim to reduce bureaucracy, deliver excellent value for money and improve service provision. This is your chance to help us reshape local government in a way that reflects modern needs while protecting the services you rely on so please tell us what you think.”
Why this matters
The proposed changes would:
- Save money – fewer councils, costing less to set up and quicker financial returns
- Protect local identity – councils shaped around real communities across rural and urban areas, empowering local voices
- Deliver better value – proven systems, fairer services, and less duplication or disruption
- Strengthen services – one-stop access, faster help, and joined-up support
- Secure the future – stable finances and long-term savings
How to have your say
Everyone is encouraged to take part in the public engagement process which runs between Monday 21 July and Sunday 17 August 2025.
You can give your views on our ideas for Local Government Reorganisation, including providing suggestions for the name of the new local authorities, by completing the survey at: www.hants.gov.uk/lgr
For a copy of the information or survey in another language or format (e.g. paper, Braille) or if you have any queries, please contact [email protected] or call 0300 555 1375 (Calls from a landline will be charged at the local rate. Mobile phone charges may vary.)
Next steps
The responses and feedback gathered during this public engagement will be carefully analysed and used to shape Hampshire County Council’s final proposal for local government reorganisation.This updated proposal will then be considered by the full County Council and Cabinet in September 2025. If approved, it will be submitted to central Government which will then review all submissions and carry out its own public consultation before making a final decision on the future structure of local government in our area.
Other ideas
12 other councils in the Hampshire and Solent area are also asking people what they think about their different ideas for how local councils could be run in the future. These will all be sent to the Government later this year, and Ministers will decide which one to take forward.Hampshire County Council and East Hampshire District Council’s proposal is different. It recommends creating four unitary councils across the area. It has also been developed by looking carefully at the facts and figures and considering what would actually work best for residents in real life. The aim is to come up with a plan that’s fair, makes sense for both towns and countryside, keeps services running smoothly, and uses public money wisely - helping to build a stronger, more sustainable future for everyone.