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.
An overview of local government reorganisation
This means replacing Hampshire County Council, Portsmouth City Council, Southampton City Council and all the district and borough councils, including our council, with unitary councils of population sizes of around 500,000, although lower numbers will be considered.
Following the government’s decision on 25 March 2026, a new northern Hampshire unitary council will be created in April 2028. The new council will deliver services currently run by Basingstoke and Deane, Hart District Council, Rushmoor Borough Council and Hampshire County Council.
This follows our work with 10 other councils across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight on joint proposals for new unitary councils that was submitted to the government in September 2025.
Government decision on new councils
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.
More on devolution and a Mayor for Hampshire and Solent
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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