An overview of what devolution and LGR are, and the benefits of our proposed 5-unitary model.
Devolution is the transfer of powers and funding from national to local government. This enables decisions to be made closer to the local people, communities, and businesses they affect. Because of this, it can offer greater freedom and flexibility to deliver better-targeted public services, economic growth, and stronger local partnerships.
This is achieved by creating a new strategic authority covering a region, usually overseen by an elected mayor.
Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) is different from devolution. Where devolution is the transfer of powers and funding from national to local government, LGR is about how the responsibilities and funding that sit with local government are organised between councils.
Brighton & Hove City Council is the only unitary authority local government in Sussex. A unitary authority means it is one-tier. Neighbouring Sussex councils operate under a 2-tier organisation. This means services are split between a county and a district council.
As part of the devolution priority programme, all 2-tiered local government areas are asked to reorganise into unitary councils. Although we are already a unitary authority, we may need to adjust our boundaries to serve a larger population and align with regional governance models.
Brighton & Hove City Council supports a 5-unitary model across Sussex. Each authority will serve 300,000 to 400,000 residents. We may keep our current footprint, or merge with neighbouring areas to the East.
The expected benefits include:
As a council, we have committed to preserving local identity and parish boundaries. Any changes will reflect existing community ties and service use.
4 options for expansion to the East are under review. Expansion to the West was ruled out due to financial and community feedback.
The aim is to improve access, quality and financial sustainability, so services will continue and might be delivered more efficiently. Governance models will evolve, but local representation will remain a priority.
Area committees, or similar structures, may be introduced to ensure community voices are heard.