Timeline

The timelines for devolution and local government organisation could shift as more information becomes available. The dates that have been outlined so far are: 

16 December 2024: Government published the English Devolution White Paper. This proposes creating new Mayoral Combined Authorities alongside local government reorganisation 

10 January 2025: Submission date for expression of interest by upper tier authorities to join the priority devolution programme 

6 February 2025: Government issues a formal invitation to Hampshire authorities to submit proposals as part of the priority programme 

17 February-13 April 2025: Consultation by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on Hampshire and the Solent devolution 

20 March 2025: Hart Cabinet approve Hampshire-wide interim plan 

21 March 2025: Local authorities across Hampshire submit proposals showing how they will work together as part of local government reorganisation 

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. 

30 June to 17 August 2025: Public survey and engagement activities to seek views across north Hampshire.  

25 September 2025: Areas to submit their final reorganisation proposals to Government on local government reorganisation 

End of 2025 to early 2026: Ministers will consider proposals for the new unitary authorities   

2026: Mayoral elections and creation of strategic authority for Hampshire and the Solent 

2027: Elections for a new unitary shadow authority 

2028: New unitary councils go live