URL: https://democracy.eastsussex.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=2595

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: Seeking Cabinet approval of the full proposal for a single tier of local government in East Sussex following discussion at Full Council, prior to submission to Government by 26 September 2025.

Content: Seeking Cabinet approval of the full proposal for a single tier of local government in East Sussex following discussion at Full Council, prior to submission to Government by 26 September 2025. 17.1     The Cabinet considered a report by the Chief Executive. 17.2     It was RESOLVED to: 1) Approve the submission of the business case setting out the proposal for a single unitary council for East Sussex, based on a Continuing Authority model, (Appendix 1 of the report) to Government by 26 September 2025; 2) Agree to request Government to cancel or postpone the county council elections scheduled to be held in May 2026; 3) Delegate to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Leader of the Council, authority to finalise and submit the business case setting out the proposal and a covering letter formally requesting the cancellation or postponement of the county elections and for the County Council to have Continuing Authority status; and 4) Note the next steps in the process.   Reasons 17.3     In response to the Government’s invitation for a single tier of local government, a proposal was developed with district and borough involvement. The six councils collaborated to create an evidence-based business case based on resident and stakeholder feedback, financial analysis, and economic considerations. The report summarises the development and recommends, for the reasons set out in the report and in its appendices, the proposal for a single-tier government in East Sussex.   17.4     Should the proposal and suggested timetable be accepted by Government with an election anticipated in 2027 the cancellation of the County Council election in 2026 will address cost, resource constraints, the upcoming transition to a new authority, and the short term that new councillors would serve before re-election.    

Date of Decision: September 24, 2025