The deadline for submitting comments on Hampshire County Council (HCC) and East Hampshire District Council’s (EHDC) proposal for reorganising local government has now passed. They’re currently reviewing feedback and preparing to submit their final proposal to central government in September.
On behalf of the parish, we attended a workshop in Winchester on 7 August, where around 30–40 parish and town councils gathered to hear more about the plans. Speakers, including HCC’s Leader and Chief Executive, explained their preferred model for reorganising Hampshire’s councils.
Their proposal suggests creating four new unitary councils, with East Hampshire joining a “North & Mid-Hampshire” unitary alongside Winchester, Basingstoke & Deane, Hart, and Rushmoor. This model would take on responsibilities currently managed by HCC, such as children’s and adult social services, and would likely be based in Winchester.
Compared to other ideas being floated (some involving three or five unitary councils), the HCC/EHDC model is seen as more financially viable and less risky. Their analysis shows it could pay for itself within three years, while other models may never recoup their setup costs.
Most attendees at the workshop supported this approach, recognising it as the most practical option if reorganisation goes ahead. However, there were concerns about ensuring local communities still have a voice. Many councils, including ours, stressed the importance of keeping decision-making close to home—through things like local budgets or asset transfers.
As agreed at our July Full Council meeting, we submitted our views via the official consultation portal. We expressed cautious support for the HCC/EHDC proposal, while highlighting the need to protect local representation.
The next stage will be a government-led consultation this autumn, with final decisions expected next spring. We’ll keep you updated and will continue to make sure your voice is heard.
