Hampshire County Council is reviewing four possible options for how local government could be reorganised across Hampshire and the Solent – a move driven by Government plans to simplify council structures across the country.
The proposed changes would see the current two-tier system replaced by a smaller number of single-tier unitary authorities. If implemented, the 15 existing councils (including Hampshire County Council, 11 borough and district councils, the unitary authorities of Southampton and Portsmouth, and the Isle of Wight Council) would be dissolved by 2028.
County Council Leader Cllr Nick Adams-King explained:
“Government wants a simpler, more efficient system of local government, one which delivers the best outcomes for local people. In response, we’re working on plans to ensure that any new councils created in Hampshire and the Solent prioritise the best interests of residents and a financially strong future.”
The County Council has been analysing data and feedback from residents, emergency services, NHS professionals, headteachers and public service partners to draw up four potential models for how the new authorities could be structured.
The Four Options Being Considered:
Option 1
- North: Basingstoke and Deane, East Hampshire, Hart, New Forest, Rushmoor, Test Valley, Winchester
- South: Eastleigh, Fareham, Gosport, Havant, Portsmouth, Southampton
- Isle of Wight (standalone)
Option 2
- North: Basingstoke and Deane, East Hampshire, Hart, Rushmoor, Test Valley, Winchester
- South-West: Eastleigh, New Forest, Southampton
- South-East: Fareham, Gosport, Havant, Portsmouth
- Isle of Wight
Option 3
- North: Basingstoke and Deane, East Hampshire, Hart, Rushmoor, Winchester
- South-West: Eastleigh, New Forest, Southampton, Test Valley
- South-East: Fareham, Gosport, Havant, Portsmouth
- Isle of Wight
Option 4
- North-East: Basingstoke and Deane, Hart, Rushmoor
- Central: Test Valley, Winchester, East Hampshire
- South-West: Eastleigh, New Forest, Southampton
- South-East: Fareham, Gosport, Havant, Portsmouth
- Isle of Wight
Cllr Adams-King added:
“We provide the majority of services residents rely on – from education and social care to highways and public health – so it’s vital that whatever model we move to can deliver these services effectively, affordably and securely into the future.”
A preferred option will be chosen and put to councillors in July. If approved, public feedback will be sought later this summer, with a final proposal submitted to Government in the autumn.
The Government is expected to hold its own formal consultation in 2026 before making a final decision.