Local Government Reorganisation

What is the latest position regarding Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Hampshire?

In September 2026, the Government withdrew its original decision on Local Government Reorganisation in Hampshire and the wider Solent area and announced a review of its plans. As a result, implementation activity has been paused while the review is carried out.

In October 2026, the Minister for Local Government, Devolution and Growth, Jim McMahon, reconfirmed Government’s commitment to reorganisation, stating an intention that councils in Hampshire and the Solent area will be reorganised in April 2029, with shadow council elections expected in 2028.

The Government has not confirmed its final decision on the future council structure for Hampshire and the Solent area. Previously submitted proposals are now being reconsidered as part of the Government's review, with an initial decision expected by early 2027.

Further updates will be shared as more information becomes available.

Hampshire County Council specific LGR information

As we work with Government and partner councils to understand what the Government's review means for Hampshire and the Solent area, Hampshire County Council remains committed to our ongoing priority to deliver the services residents rely on and supporting communities every day.

Please continue to contact and work with Hampshire County Council as normal.

Information for suppliers

What is Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)?

Local government reorganisation is a process that changes how local councils are structured and how local services are delivered.

In the context of the English Devolution White Paper, this means moving away from the current two-tier arrangement to a unitary model.

Under a two-tier system, responsibilities are shared between a county council and district or borough councils. Under a unitary model, a single council is responsible for delivering all local government services within an area.

In Hampshire, most of the county currently operates under a two-tier system. The exceptions are Southampton City Council and Portsmouth City Council, which are already unitary councils.

Today in mainland Hampshire, 14 councils currently provide core services in their respective areas:

One county council (Hampshire County Council)
11 district and borough councils (Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, East Hampshire District Council, Eastleigh Borough Council, Fareham Borough Council, Gosport Borough Council, Hart District Council, Havant Borough Council, New Forest District Council, Rushmoor Borough Council, Test Valley Borough Council, Winchester City Council)
Two unitary councils (Portsmouth City Council and Southampton City Council)

Current structure of local government in mainland Hampshire

Current structure of local government in mainland Hampshire

See an Easy-Read explanation of Local Government Reorganisation

Background to LGR

In September 2025, councils across Hampshire and the Solent area each submitted proposals setting out options for future council structures.

In March 2026, Government then announced its chosen model.

In September 2026, Government withdrew its decision for Hampshire and the Solent area and announced a review of the overall LGR programme.

The options submitted in September 2025 will now be reconsidered as part of the next stage of the process.

Information about the joint proposal submitted to Government by Hampshire County Council and East Hampshire District Council can be found below.

Proposal for Local Government Reorganisation in Hampshire and the Solent: Strategic Business Case and Options Appraisal (September 2025)

Please note: Local government reorganisation is separate to devolution, which involves the transfer of powers and funding from national government to local areas.