What this means for Hart

A new North Hampshire unitary council will replace the current two-tier council system of Hampshire County Council and district or borough councils. It will be formed from Hart District Council, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and Rushmoor Borough Council and incorporate Hampshre County Council services.

The Government’s vision for local government reorganisation gives us an opportunity to transform how services are delivered for our communities and tailored to local needs.

The new unitary councils for Hampshire

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Easier for residents to get what they need

A new unitary council for north Hampshire will make things easier for residents, with council services being provided by one organisation. This would build on successful shared service arrangements already in place in north Hampshire, including waste collection, street cleaning services and other initiatives between the three councils.

Closer to communities

This unitary size will keep a close connection to communities, allowing us to be responsive to local needs and giving people a say in their area. It also celebrates what makes us special as an area, protecting people’s sense of place and local identity.

Maximising economic potential

Hart, Basingstoke and Deane and Rushmoor economies are closely connected and home to key industries including high-tech, aerospace and financial services. Our economy looks towards London, unlike most of the rest of Hampshire, which focuses on the cities of Portsmouth and Southampton.

Financial stability

A unitary council for north Hampshire will provide the scale and financial stability the Government is looking for by maximising scale in delivering services and reducing overhead costs.