Devolution proposals in Sussex elicit varied responses and competing bids

Political figures across Sussex have expressed varied opinions regarding proposals to consolidate councils and introduce elected mayors, with one prominent leader describing the initiative as “a death knell for local democracy”. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has unveiled plans to eliminate borough and district councils, opting instead for larger, consolidated strategic authorities throughout England. Over recent months, Brighton & Hove, East Sussex, and West Sussex have each submitted distinct expressions of interest concerning the acquisition of devolved power. The UK Government has stated that devolution is intended to empower regions with a stronger voice, stimulate economic growth, and contribute to the construction of 1.5 million homes nationwide. The Labour leader of Brighton & Hove City Council had previously characterized devolution as an “excellent opportunity” for the city. Zoe Nicholson, the Green Party leader of Lewes District Council, labeled the proposals a “power grab” and dismissed the notion that they would grant control to local residents as “absolute nonsense” and “an insult to our intelligence”. She further stated, “It represents the death knell for local democracy.” Nicholson accused Rayner of “bringing down the elected institutions that stand in her way” in an effort to push through planning decisions related to new house building. She concluded by saying: “We cannot allow the government to ride roughshod over the democratic rights of residents and hand yet more power to men in grey suits.” During October, Brighton & Hove City Council submitted an expression of interest regarding devolution to the government. However, given the city’s population of 280,000, it would be necessary for it to expand to satisfy the government’s mandate of at least 500,000 inhabitants for a new strategic authority. The letter sent to the government was co-signed by the leaders of all seven West Sussex borough councils. This proposal did not incorporate plans for an elected mayor. Concurrently, West Sussex County Council also put forward a distinct and competing bid for devolution. A proposal submitted by East Sussex County Council received signatures from the leaders of all five of its district councils, alongside other local political party leaders. Keith Glazier, the Conservative leader of East Sussex County Council, stated: “Our priority will be that any changes should benefit the people of East Sussex. All the services local government provides require stability and secure funding, especially in this time of intense financial pressure. We are fortunate that all local government partners in East Sussex have a long track record of working closely and effectively together.” Presently, local services in East and West Sussex operate under a two-tier governance structure, comprising an upper-tier county council and a total of 12 lower-tier borough and district authorities. County councils bear responsibility for social care, education, transport, major infrastructure, waste management, fire services, public safety, trading standards, and libraries. Borough and district councils oversee housing and planning, waste collections, and the collection of council tax. Since 1997, Brighton & Hove City Council has functioned as a unitary authority, managing all local services within the city.