Have your say on the future of local councils in West Sussex

Released: Wednesday, 30 July 2025

There's still time to shape the future of local government in West Sussex. Residents, businesses, and community groups are being encouraged to take part in a county-wide survey before it closes on Wednesday 13th August 2025. More than 4,500 people have already shared their views and there's still time to participate.

Launched on 17th July, the joint survey from Adur District Council, Arun District Council, Chichester District Council, Crawley Borough Council, Horsham District Council, Mid Sussex District Council, West Sussex County Council and Worthing Borough Council, asks people where they live or work, which council services they use, and how they believe local councils should be structured in the future. The feedback will help inform the response to the government's request for proposals on moving to a simpler, single-tier council model, replacing the current two-tier system of county and district or borough councils.

So far, the response has been strong, with thousands already taking part. All councils across West Sussex are working together to ensure that any proposals reflect the views of local people and communities before being submitted to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government in September. Once proposals are submitted by 26th September 2025, the government will begin a formal consultation process. A government decision on local government reorganisation in West Sussex is expected in Spring 2026.

Whether you're a resident, a business owner, or part of a local organisation, this is a chance to influence how vital services like waste collection, housing, education, and social care are delivered in the future.

The councils are especially keen to hear from organisations supporting vulnerable or underrepresented groups. Every voice matters, and this input will help ensure that decisions reflect the needs of everyone in West Sussex. Hard copy and large-print versions of the survey are also available at all council receptions and libraries across the county for those who prefer non-digital options.

It's important to note that this process is about local government reorganisation which concerns streamlining how services are delivered locally. It is separate from devolution, which involves transferring powers from central government to new regional mayoral authorities.

These changes could affect how you're represented, how decisions are made, and how public money is spent. Whether you've just moved to the area, run a business, care for a loved one, or simply want your voice heard, your opinion matters.

Take part in the survey online, or pick up a paper copy at your local library, Worthing Town Hall or The Shoreham Centre. The survey closes on Wednesday 13th August 2025 at 11:59pm.

Have your say: www.shapingwestsussex.org