Frequently asked questions about local government reorganisation

What is happening with Local Government Reorganisation?

The government is expected to confirm its preferred model for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in East Sussex shortly.

The current indicative timetable is:

• Structural Change Order made by Government - expected 2026
• Shadow authority established - April 2027
• Elections to the new authority - May 2027
• Shadow authority prepares the new council - 2027-2028
• New authority goes live (vesting day) - April 2028.

Until vesting day, Hastings Borough Council will continue delivering services as normal.

Below are some frequently asked questions about LGR. We will update these as more information becomes available.

Are councils already working together ahead of LGR?

Yes. Councils across East Sussex are already working together on areas such as service mapping, data sharing and exploring shared service arrangements where appropriate.
This work helps ensure the new authority has the information it needs to operate effectively from vesting day.

How does local government reorganisation affect residents?

The aim of reorganisation is to simplify council structures, improve efficiency, and make services easier for residents to access. Ultimately, it should mean better value for money and stronger decision-making closer to communities.

Does this solve the issue of council finances?

Not on its own. All councils continue to face serious financial pressures. Without wider reform of local government funding, any new structure will still face challenges, starting with a major financial shortfall. However, reorganisation is an important step in making the system simpler and more sustainable.

Where can I read the business cases that were submitted to the government?

The full business cases and covering letter are available to download.

Will there be local elections in May 2026?

Yes. Local elections for Hastings Borough Council and East Sussex County Council will take place in May 2026 as scheduled.

However, these councillors are expected to serve a shorter term than usual because of Local Government Reorganisation.

The current indicative timetable is:

• May 2026 - elections for Hastings Borough Council and East Sussex County Council
• April 2027 - shadow authority established
• May 2027 - elections to the new unitary authority/authorities
• April 2028 - new authority/authorities go live (vesting day).

This means the councils elected in May 2026 are expected to operate for approximately one year before the transition to the new authority begins.

Will councillors still make decisions during the transition?

Yes. Until the new authority goes live in April 2028, Hastings Borough Council and East Sussex County Council will continue to operate as normal and councillors will continue to make decisions about services, budgets and policies.

Once the new authority has been elected in May 2027, a shadow authority will also be established. Its role will be to prepare the new council so it is ready to take over responsibilities on vesting day in April 2028.

During the shadow period, the existing councils will continue delivering services while the shadow authority focuses on planning the future organisation.

Will Hastings still exist as a place if the council is abolished?

Yes. Local Government Reorganisation changes how councils are organised, but it does not change the identity of places such as Hastings.

Hastings will continue to exist as a town and community with its own history, identity and representation.

Local communities will continue to be represented by councillors in the new authority, and there may also be options in the future for local governance arrangements such as town or parish councils if considered appropriate.