The councils believe that a two-unitary model for West Sussex will be large enough to be efficient, and small enough for the new council to genuinely be connected to the communities it will serve. The model has also been identified as financially viable, with projected annual savings of between £18.8 million and £34 million once the new system is established. 

This two-unitary option for LGR in West Sussex, along with the option of one single authority for the area, will now form part of a government consultation that runs from today to Sunday 11th January.

The statutory consultation not only asks for views on the proposals for West Sussex, but for the whole of Sussex including Brighton and Hove and East Sussex.

Consultation questions are set out for each proposal, and respondents can choose which proposals they wish to comment on.

The consultation forms the next stage in the LGR process, with a ministerial decision on the future shape of local government in West Sussex anticipated in Spring 2026. 

Adur District Council leader Cllr Jeremy Gardner said: “Through our Thriving Together programme and via the Shaping West Sussex survey, residents in Adur have helped develop our proposal for two unitaries in West Sussex. The government consultation provides another opportunity for residents to have their say.”

Worthing Borough Council leader Cllr Sophie Cox said: “We are grateful for everyone who has taken the time to share their views on LGR and the future of the places they live, work and visit so far. As well as the government consultation, there are still plenty of opportunities to get involved in practical projects stemming from Thriving Together as well as help design what comes next.”

Adur and Worthing residents can take part in the consultation by visiting https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/west-sussex-local-government-reorganisation by Sunday 11th January. Printed copies will be available at council office receptions and at libraries throughout West Sussex.

To find out more about Thriving Together and sign up for future engagement events, visit https://participate.adur-worthing.gov.uk/en-GB/events/b8b12b3f-07b2-46dc-b7d5-81419b079677