Council accused of failing to collaborate over LGR

COUNTY CHIEF DENIES IGNORING SOUTHAMPTON

- By NATALIA FORERO

A ROW has broken out over Hampshire County Council's failure to collaborate with other local authorities on the proposed local government reorganisation (LGR).

The leader of Southampton City Council has said she is disappointed that the county council has “chosen not to collaborate” with the other councils, and is instead developing its own options working alongside East Hampshire District Council.

These options include joining Portsmouth and Southampton councils into a larger regional authority something they both oppose.

The Government wants to reorganise local councils across the country, with new unitary authorities covering bigger areas created by 2028.

These new authorities would be responsible for delivering local services currently provided by district, borough, and city councils.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has asked all 15 authorities in Hampshire and the Solent region to prepare LGR proposals for submission later this year, backed by evidence and developed in consultation with local partners.

Since the beginning of this year, local authorities in Hampshire have been collaborating and sharing data and expertise to find the best solution for residents.