Local Government: West Sussex
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to his letter to West Sussex Council leaders sent on 25 March 2026, if he will share his Department's financial modelling for the two proposed unitary authorities.
Answered by Alison McGovern
The Secretary of State has consulted on a potential modification to the two unitary proposal. The approach taken has been guided by the proposals and evidence submitted by councils, with those submissions from councils forming the primary basis for assessment alongside official analysis. Our analysis of the proposals considered proposed costs and savings, and the financial sustainability and resilience of new councils. We drew on sector benchmarking data, evidence from previous reorganisations and Government appraisal guidance, together with internal modelling to assess financial risk – considering the levels of reserves, debt and the position of predecessor authorities. It would not be appropriate for the Government to comment on or share the confidential advice provided to Ministers throughout the process.
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