Central Government wants to simplify local government structures nationally by replacing the current two-tier system, where responsibilities are split between county councils and district or borough councils, with fewer, new single-tier unitary councils. These new councils would be responsible for all local services in their area, from education and social care to waste collection and planning.
In Hampshire and the Solent area, this change would affect 15 existing councils, including Hampshire County Council, 11 district and borough councils, and the unitary authorities of Southampton, Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight.
Following extensive analysis and engagement, Hampshire County Council, in partnership with East Hampshire District Council, submitted a proposal to Government earlier this autumn, recommending the creation of four new unitary councils:
- Mid-North unitary authority: Basingstoke and Deane, East Hampshire, Hart, Rushmoor, Winchester
- West unitary authority: Eastleigh, New Forest, Southampton, Test Valley
- South-East unitary authority: Fareham, Gosport, Havant, Portsmouth
- Isle of Wight unitary authority: remaining as a standalone unitary council
Hampshire County Council's proposal is one option presented for consideration in the consultation. Other models by other local authorities in the area include options for five unitary councils.
Leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Nick Adams-King, said:
This is one of the most important decisions about local government in our area for a generation. Government's aim for LGR is to make sure services work better for people; are easier to access, more joined-up, continue to protect the most vulnerable across our communities, and are financially secure for the future.
The final decision on the new structure of councils across our area will lie with Government. They are expected to decide in the spring of next year ahead of new councils coming into being in 2028.
Leader of East Hampshire District Council, Councillor Richard Millard, said:
This consultation is your opportunity to have your say about how local councils will operate across Hampshire for years to come.
We all rely on council services, from emptying our bins to protecting our most vulnerable, so whether you're a resident, an employee, a business owner, part of a community group or sports club, or involved in a volunteer organisation please take the time to tell the Government what you think.
Government's consultation runs until 11 January 2026.
Find out more about all the LGR proposals set out within the Government's consultation
A hard copy of the Government's consultation document and the proposals will also be available for view at each of the County Council's 40 libraries from next week.