Local Government Reorganisation and What It Means for Wealden Residents

You may have heard discussions about devolution and local government reorganisation. But what do these terms mean for you as a resident in Wealden? Here’s a clear explanation of what’s happening and how it might affect you.

What is Devolution?

Devolution is when certain powers and funding are transferred from the central government to a more local authority. This is designed to give local areas greater control over decisions that directly impact their communities.

On 5 February, the government announced that East Sussex, West Sussex, and Brighton and Hove had been accepted into the devolution priority programme.

What Does This Mean for Wealden?

If devolution goes ahead, a new governing body called a Mayoral Strategic Authority will be created. The new authority would have powers over strategic issues including transport, environment and climate change, housing, economic growth, health and public safety, as shown in the graphic below.

Most everyday services that residents rely on, such as bin collections, benefit payments, environmental health, planning decisions, council tax management, and tourism and wellbeing initiatives would still be managed by your local council.

What Happens Next?

For now, there will be no immediate changes to council services or operations.

Government held a public consultation on the devolution proposal in March/April 2025. East Sussex submitted an interim proposal in March 2025 and was accepted onto the Government's fast-track devolution scheme. Final proposals to create one or more unitary councils in East Sussex will be submitted to government in September 2025. If approved, elections for the new council would take place in 2027.

What Should Residents Do?

If you would like to share your views or learn more about the devolution plans, visit the East Sussex Councils website and take part in the public survey.

The map below shows the proposed area of the Strategic Mayoral Authority: