Residents across Andover and the Test Valley are being encouraged to take part in a major government consultation that could shape the future of local government across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
A collective of 11 councils, including Test Valley Borough Council, has voiced its support for a “five-unitary council” model, arguing that it offers the best balance of local accountability, service delivery and long-term financial stability. The proposed structure would create four new councils on the mainland—centred on Basingstoke, Winchester, Southampton and Portsmouth—while the Isle of Wight would remain a standalone authority.
At the heart of the proposal is the principle of keeping councils “small enough to stay local, but big enough to stay strong,” with projected savings of at least £63.9 million per year through reduced duplication and streamlined operations.
Local Impact for Test Valley
For Test Valley residents, the preferred model would result in a new mid-Hampshire council comprising Test Valley, Winchester, New Forest and East Hampshire. Supporters say this would keep Andover, Romsey and the borough’s rural communities connected to areas with similar needs and identities, while maintaining close working relationships with local services such as the NHS, police and voluntary sector partners.
Councillor Phil North, Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, has emphasised the importance of local voices being heard during the consultation period.
“This consultation marks the last chance for you, our communities, to influence the biggest change to local councils in a generation,” he said.
“Whilst reorganising local government isn’t a path we would have chosen, it remains our firm belief that creating five new councils – including a mid-Hampshire authority with Test Valley, Winchester, New Forest and East Hampshire – is the best option for our communities. Creating councils that are still small enough to be local, but big enough to stay strong, while saving millions, cutting duplication and keeping our market towns and rural areas together.
“The alternative would see us paired with the City of Southampton in a much larger council. But whatever your view, and whichever option you support, please respond to the government’s consultation and make sure your voice is heard.”
A Model Backed by Most Hampshire Authorities
The five-unitary model has the backing of 11 local authorities: Basingstoke and Deane, Eastleigh, Fareham, Hart, Havant, New Forest, Portsmouth, Rushmoor, Southampton, Test Valley and Winchester. The approach builds on years of collaboration between councils and reflects established travel-to-work patterns and economic links.
Cllr Paul Harvey, Leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, speaking on behalf of the group, said:
“Our message is clear that we want councils close enough to communities to maintain connection and big enough to deliver all services. Our proposal has the support of 11 local authorities in Hampshire and it is focused on our economic geographies that make most sense to the way residents live and work.”
Independent research by the District Councils’ Network suggests that very large “mega councils” do not necessarily save more money or perform better, supporting the argument for more balanced, moderately sized unitary authorities.
How to Take Part
The government consultation is open until 11 January 2026, giving residents, businesses and community organisations the opportunity to help shape the future of local government across the region.
Full details of the proposals and links to respond can be found at:
www.closeenoughtobelocal.co.uk