Key dates for devolution and local government reorganisation
The Government is currently considering the submissions received for local government reorganisation in Hampshire. A consultation on this is open until 11 January 2026.
Following this a decision will be made on local government reorganisation with elections for a new shadow unitary authority currently expected in 2027 and new councils live from 2028.
Mayoral elections for a strategic authority for Hampshire and the Solent are now expected in 2028.
The timelines for devolution and local government organisation could shift as more information becomes available. The dates that have been outlined so far are:
19 November 2025: Government opens consultation exercise for local communities to be involved in decision making process for proposed authorities
26 September 2025: Authorities submit their final reorganisation proposals to Government
30 June to 17 August 2025: Public surveys and engagement activities to seek views across north Hampshire and Hampshire as a whole
7 May 2025: Feedback from Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on interim proposals for Hampshire. Councils proceed with putting together their final proposals
21 March 2025: Local authorities across Hampshire submit proposals showing how they will work together as part of local government reorganisation
20 March 2025: Hart Cabinet approve Hampshire-wide interim plan
17 February-13 April 2025: Consultation by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on Hampshire and the Solent devolution
6 February 2025: Government issues a formal invitation to Hampshire authorities to submit proposals as part of the priority programme
10 January 2025: Submission date for expression of interest by upper tier authorities to join the priority devolution programme
16 December 2024: Government published the English Devolution White Paper. This proposes creating new Mayoral Combined Authorities alongside local government reorganisation