Residents in Crawley are being invited to share their views on new government proposals to restructure local councils across Sussex. The government consultation, which launched on 12 May 2026, is open for feedback until 15 June 2026 and marks the second time the public has been asked to weigh in on the plans.
The latest proposal suggests dividing the region into two separate authorities. Under this model, Crawley would join Chichester, Horsham, and Mid Sussex to form one authority serving approximately 566,000 people. A second, coastal-focused authority would be created by combining Arun, Adur, and Worthing, serving roughly 349,000 residents.
These plans follow an announcement on 25 March 2026 by the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Steve Reed, who stated that a decision had not yet been reached after an initial consultation that drew 3,828 responses. The government cited concerns regarding community identity and the balance of the proposed structure as reasons for this further look at the plans.
Local leaders have expressed mixed views on the process. Horsham District Council leader Martin Boffey has stated that local councils previously dismissed this specific arrangement as not being financially viable, while Chichester District Council leader Adrian Moss described the current consultation as the final chance for people to have their say. Meanwhile, MP Andrew Griffith has criticised the ongoing process, describing it as flawed and calling for it to be set aside.
A final decision from the government is expected in the summer of 2026. If the changes are approved, the new unitary councils would begin their full roles from April 2028, with transitional arrangements set to take place throughout 2027.
Residents can submit their feedback via the official government portal until 23:59 on 15 June 2026. Further information is available through Crawley Borough Council.
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