The government is changing the way local government in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight is structured to make it simpler for residents through its plans for local government reorganisation.
The aim is to make it clear to residents and businesses who is responsible for all local government services and ensuring better outcomes for local people by having one council delivering the majority of local services in each area.
An overview of local government reorganisation
On 25 March 2026, the government announced Hampshire County Council, Portsmouth City Council, Southampton City Council and all the district and borough councils, including our council, will be replaced by four new unitary councils that deliver all services in their areas.
Government decision on new councils
We are working together with these 13 other councils to coordinate local government reorganisation across the county as part of the Future Hampshire programme. More information on how local government is changing across Hampshire is on its website.
A new North Hampshire Council will deliver all local government services in northern Hampshire from 1 April 2028, replacing us, Hart District Council, Rushmoor Borough Council and Hampshire County Council.
The local government reorganisation programme sits alongside the government’s intention to devolve some powers and funding to a new strategic authority under an elected Mayor, making decisions across the wider Hampshire and Isle of Wight area.
Similar to what already happens in London and Greater Manchester, this authority would set the vision and policy for areas like strategic planning, transport, economic development and skills, with the new unitary councils created delivering the services.
While we move forward with local government reorganisation, we will continue to deliver the very best services for our residents and will keep you updated on our progress through:
If you have any questions, please email FutureCouncils@basingstoke.gov.uk
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