Future Hampshire timeline
Future Hampshire timeline
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April 2028 (Vesting Day)
Unitary councils begin to operate.
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May 2027
Elections to the new unitary councils (known as shadow authorities).
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Autumn 2026
A structural change order is expected to be issued by national government. This means the government formally sets the legislation to establish new local government arrangements in a specific area and provides for transition, including initial elections.
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March 2026
National government announces future structure.
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January 2026
End of the government’s consultation (9 January).
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November 2025
A public consultation is opened by national government, allowing local people to comment on all the proposals: Local government reorganisation in Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and Southampton - GOV.UK
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July to August 2025
Residents and organisations across Hampshire and the Solent area invited to share their views with existing councils.
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May 2025
Ministerial feedback provided on interim submissions: LGR: summary of feedback on interim plans - GOV.UK
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February 2025
The national government invites proposals and sets out six criteria: Letter inviting proposals from Hampshire councils and unitary authorities - GOV.UK
