Four local authorities in Hampshire have voted to merge into a single “mega council” led by an executive mayor, marking a significant shift in local governance for the region.
The Isle of Wight Council reversed its previous stance opposing the government’s English Devolution White Paper proposals, aligning with Hampshire, Portsmouth, and Southampton councils. This unanimous support among Hampshire’s county-level authorities paves the way for the formation of the new governing body.
The councils also approved the fast-track Devolution Priority Programme (DPP), which aims to expedite the transition. However, the fast track comes with the contentious postponement of local elections scheduled for May, delayed by 12 months—a decision met with resistance from some, including Hampshire County Council’s Liberal Democrat members.
Initially, the Isle of Wight Council opposed the Labour Government’s plans, citing concerns that a “mainland mayor” might wield disproportionate influence over the island. However, its cabinet overturned the full council’s earlier decision, removing the final hurdle to the reorganisation.
The move aligns with broader government ambitions to establish elected mayors across England to oversee housing, planning, education, and other key services. Westminster Ministers believe that larger, more powerful regional authorities will better facilitate infrastructure projects and attract investment. The reorganisation could result in the abolition of dozens of smaller councils.
As part of the changes, the government has recommended restructuring local government, abolishing district and borough councils like New Forest, Test Valley, Winchester, Fareham, and Gosport, and replacing them with unitary authorities serving at least 500,000 residents. The Isle of Wight, with a population of approximately 142,000, has been recognised as a special case due to its unique geography.
Meanwhile, Hampshire County Council’s cabinet endorsed the plans, including the fast-track programme and the election delay, solidifying the county’s readiness to move forward with the reorganisation.
The Green Party has previously set out its views on the English Devolution White Paper, saying that it steals power away from local people.