October 2025

Dear Parishioners,

We wish to update you on the significant developments in local government reorganisation currently underway across West Sussex. This process, initiated by central government, aims to simplify the structure of local government by replacing the existing two-tier system (county and district/borough councils) with unitary authorities responsible for  all local services.

Current Status

In September 2025, West Sussex County Council, along with the seven district and borough councils, completed and submitted a joint business case to the government. This followed public engagement, including the Shaping West Sussex survey, which gathered input from over 9,000 residents, businesses, and community groups.

The business case outlines two viable models:

- A single unitary authority covering all of West Sussex (preferred by West Sussex County Council).

- Two unitary authorities, one covering Adur, Arun, Chichester, and Worthing; the other covering Crawley, Horsham, and Mid Sussex (supported by several district councils).

Each council has submitted its preferred option to central government. A formal consultation will now follow, with a final decision expected in Spring 2026. If approved, elections to the new councils are anticipated in May 2027, with the new authorities becoming operational by April 2028.

Impact on Parish Councils

While parish councils like ours are not directly affected in terms of structural change, the reorganisation will influence how we interact with principal authorities and how services are delivered locally. Key considerations include:

- Service Integration: Parish councils may need to adapt to new service delivery models and points of contact.

- Local Identity: The business case emphasises preserving local heritage and community identity, which is vital for rural parishes like Patching

- Representation: Changes in council boundaries and governance may affect how parish voices are heard in strategic decision-making.

We have been invited to participate in stakeholder meetings and will continue to represent your interests throughout this process.

Key Dates Summary

- 12 September 2025: Business case for reorganisation completed.

- 23 September 2025: Extraordinary County Council meeting to review the business case.

- 26 September 2025: Submission of preferred options to central government.

- Spring 2026: Government decision expected following consultation.

- May 2027: Anticipated elections for new unitary authorities.

- April 2028: New local government structure expected to become operational.

Further Reading and Resources

For those interested in learning more, the following resources provide detailed

information:

- Business Case for Local Government Reorganisation:

https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/news/business-case-for-local-government-

reorganisation-in-west-sussex-completed/

- Future of Local Government in Sussex – WSCC Campaign Page:

https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/campaigns/future-of-local-government-in-sussex/

- Shaping West Sussex Engagement Hub:

https://yourvoice.westsussex.gov.uk/shaping-west-sussex

- WSCC Newsroom – Latest Updates:

https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/news/?year=2025

Yours sincerely,

Marc Pinnell

Chairman, Patching Parish Council