Timeline
Key dates for devolution and local government reorganisation
| May 2028 | Expected mayoral elections for Hampshire and the Solent strategic authority |
|---|---|
| 1 April 2028 | New unitary councils take over all responsibilities for their areas |
| May 2027 | Elections for new councillors to shadow council |
| Autumn 2026 | Legislation passed to enable the formation of the new councils |
| March 2026 | Government publishes decision on how councils across Hampshire will be organised |
| November 2025 - January 2026 | Government consultation for communities to be involved in decision-making process for proposed authorities |
| September 2025 | Authorities submit their final reorganisation proposals to Government |
| June - August 2025 | Surveys and engagement activities to seek views across Hampshire |
| March 2025 | Local authorities across Hampshire submit proposals showing how they will work together as part of local government reorganisation |
| February- April 2025 | Consultation by the Government on Hampshire and the Solent devolution |
| February 2025 | Government issues a formal invitation to Hampshire authorities to submit proposals as part of the priority programme |
| December 2024 | Government published the English Devolution White Paper. This proposes creating new Mayoral Combined Authorities alongside local government reorganisation |