EAST Sussex leaders have called on ministers to urgently reconsider plans to move 23,600 residents into an expanded Brighton & Hove.
Whilst most of East Sussex will stay together allowing strong partnerships to continue, the Government has announced that the reorganisation of local government will see Peacehaven, Telscombe, East Saltdean move to the city’s authority from 2028, despite very strong opposition. Falmer will remain with the new East Sussex authority.
“We will be asking Ministers to urgently reconsider,” said Cllr Andy Woolley, leader of East Sussex County Council.
“While Government has largely accepted that the strong partnerships in East Sussex will flourish best by continuing together, it is bitterly disappointing this has been compromised by the severing of some of our communities.
“This is especially hurtful for the people and businesses of East Saltdean, Peacehaven, Telscombe who vigorously opposed suggestions to move them and strongly expressed a desire to remain in East Sussex. It is not clear why their views have been over-ruled.
“East Sussex would be in an even stronger position as one unitary authority. As our business case showed, it is a model which will be able save money, build on the existing strong working partnerships in the county and serve different communities in a place with a distinct and recognisable identity.”
Whilst calling for Government to reconsider, Cllr Woolley said he would work closely with partners to protect local services and secure the best possible outcome for the people and communities of East Sussex.
A new unitary authority for the majority of East Sussex would have a population of around 530,000.
Under the government plans, councillors will be elected to a shadow form of the new authority in May 2027. It will run alongside existing county and borough/district councils until April 2028 when it will become the single authority for the area.
[Posted on ESCC website 16/7/26]