MP for Lewes Demands Clarity on East Sussex Boundaries Following Government Reorganisation Pause

James MacCleary MP has called on the Government to provide clear assurances that local government boundaries in East Sussex will not be revisited following the announcement that Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Sussex has been paused.

Thousands of residents across the constituency, including in Newhaven, Kingston, Falmer and surrounding communities, took part in the Government's consultation on proposed local government boundaries. Many expressed strong opposition to proposals that would have seen Brighton & Hove City Council expand further east.

Following the consultation process, proposals for Brighton & Hove's expansion eastwards were successfully resisted. However, the Government determined that Brighton & Hove would expand into Peacehaven, East Saltdean and Telscombe.

Speaking in Parliament, Mr MacCleary asked the Secretary of State:

"Large numbers of my constituents took part in the Government's consultation on proposed boundaries for the East Sussex unitary authority in good faith. They were appalled by Brighton and Hove City Council's attempted land grab in our area, and together, we resisted it.

Can the Secretary of State be crystal clear for my constituents on whether she intends to reopen the discussion over East Sussex's local government boundaries as part of this review?"

Commenting on the Government's decision, James MacCleary MP said:

"I am furious at the chaos the Government has created around local government reform in Sussex.

“First, residents were told that a mayoral authority would be introduced, only for the election of a Mayor to be delayed until 2028. Then local elections to East Sussex County Council were cancelled, reinstated, cancelled again, and ultimately held this May.

“District councils were told they would be abolished, yet they are now facing another round of elections next year, despite their long-term future remaining unclear.

“It is no wonder that residents are confused and frustrated. Communities have engaged with consultations in good faith and deserve certainty about their future.

“I will be seeking an urgent meeting with the Secretary of State to ensure that communities such as Newhaven and Kingston are not forced to relive arguments that have already been settled, and that there is no further attempt by Brighton & Hove City Council to expand at the expense of neighbouring communities."