The Future of Public Services – Have Your Say
The government has launched a statutory consultation on proposals to reorganise councils across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. This consultation will run until 11 January 2026 and is an important opportunity for residents, businesses, and community groups to share their views on how local services should be delivered from April 2028 onwards.
Why this consultation matters
Local government reorganisation (LGR) is a national initiative designed to reduce the number of councils and create new unitary authorities that provide all local government services. For Hampshire, this means significant changes to how services such as waste collection, housing, planning, highways, education, and social care could be managed in the future.
The government is considering several options for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. These options explore different boundaries and structures for new councils, each with potential implications for how services are run and how communities are represented.
What the consultation is asking
The consultation seeks views on whether the proposals:
- Reflect sensible geographies and economic areas
- Can deliver economic, social, and public service benefits
- Are the right size to be efficient, resilient, and financially sustainable
- Will deliver high‑quality, sustainable public services
- Are informed by local views and meet local needs
- Support devolution arrangements
- Enable stronger community engagement and empowerment
Options under consideration
Among the options being considered are:
- A Mid‑Hampshire unitary including the New Forest, Test Valley, Winchester, and East Hampshire.
- Option 1A, which would split four New Forest parishes (Totton & Eling, Marchwood, Hythe & Dibden, and Fawley) into a “South West” unitary with Southampton and Eastleigh, while the remainder of the New Forest would join the Mid‑Hampshire unitary.
These proposals are complex and detailed, and each option has different implications for local services, representation, and community identity.
Find out more details here.
Why your voice matters
The government will make the final decision on the future structure of councils in Hampshire. While local councils have already submitted their proposals, this statutory consultation is the stage where your views directly inform the government’s decision‑making.
Taking part is about exercising your right to be heard. Whether you support one option, have concerns about boundaries, or simply want to ensure services remain strong and sustainable, your feedback is vital.
How to take part
The consultation is open until 11 January 2026.
You can read more and submit your views via the official government consultation: Hampshire & Isle of Wight LGR Consultation
This is your opportunity to share your views and help shape the future of local services. Make sure your voice counts.
