The Isle of Wight council’s Cabinet has agreed to submit an interim proposal for local government reorganisation to central government.
This decision, made last Thursday, follows a series of meetings between council leaders and chief executives from 15 local authorities across the Hampshire and Solent area.
Consensus building across the region
The interim plan represents a shared approach to shaping local government structures that meet future needs. Leaders have agreed on core principles to guide decision-making through the process.
Although the councils have not yet reached agreement on a single preferred model for future unitary arrangements, the draft proposal includes a specific request to central government.
Remaining one unitary authority
It asks for clarity on whether the Isle of Wight, with a population below 500,000, can meet the criteria to remain a separate unitary authority.
Seeking recognition of unique circumstances
The 500,000 population figure is one of the government’s benchmarks for new councils, aimed at ensuring efficiency, resilience, and improved service delivery.
Ministers have signalled, however, that exceptions could be considered for areas with distinctive needs.
Councillor Phil Jordan, leader of the Isle of Wight council, said,
“The Isle of Wight has a unique identity and distinct needs that must be preserved in any reorganisation. Our proposal to remain a separate unitary authority reflects the exceptional circumstances and the strong consensus among local leaders.
“We are committed to ensuring that our community continues to receive tailored and effective governance that supports our future growth and prosperity.”
Next steps and government criteria
Over the coming months, the councils will work together to develop a final proposal. They plan to submit this to government in the autumn.
The final version must reflect several key government priorities. These include delivering high-quality, sustainable services, creating efficiencies, building capacity to manage financial pressures, and enabling stronger community involvement.
Further details on the reorganisation process are available on the Isle of Wight council’s website.
