Local Government Reorganisation: Peacehaven Town Council's Comment - July 26

Peacehaven Town Council's Comment on Minister’s Decision on LGR

On Thursday 16^th July, following several consultations, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government announced his decision on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), that Peacehaven and Telscombe would become part of a Brighton & Hove Unitary Authority.

This decision was unexpected, given that throughout each consultation and public meeting on the subject, support was strongly in favour of Peacehaven and Telscombe remaining part of the East Sussex Unitary Authority, and it’s disappointing that the Government has totally ignored this local voice.

Since LGR was announced, Peacehaven Town Council (PTC) have supported the One East Sussex proposal as we have felt that this proposal provides a stronger public service, is more financially sustainable, is a more sensible geography, reduces unnecessary transition costs, and better reflects the local identity and community preference.

Whilst PTC has no more influence over this decision (which is taken solely by the Government) than anyone else who has responded to the consultation, we are doing what we can to safeguard the amenities that Peacehaven has, this work has so far included;

• Having the Peacehaven & Telscombe Neighbourhood Development Plan adopted through Public Referendum, providing vital policies for development in the plan area.
• Listing the South Coast Road Car Parks as Assets of Community Value, which provides some protection from the sale of the assets.
• Submitting nominations for Local Control Transfers of assets currently managed by the District Council to PTC, meaning that PTC could take control of these assets, if approved.
• Reviewing our Community & Business Plan, ensuring that strategic goals are in place, with consideration for resources and timescales needed to deliver these projects.
• Developing a Green Infrastructure Plan, to supplement our existing management plans, to set a strategic framework for managing natural and built environments.
• Liaising closely with stakeholders and colleagues at all levels of relevant organisations and authorities involved in this process.

Cllr Aimee Harman, Mayor of Peacehaven, said on the topic;

“In light of the recent announcement by the Minister regarding Peacehaven’s integration into the Brighton and Hove unitary authority, I understand that many residents may feel nervous and apprehensive about this change. Your concerns are completely valid, and I want to assure you that I am here to listen.

As your Mayor, I have the opportunity to engage directly with key stakeholders, including the Mayor of Brighton, the Chair of Lewes District Council, the Chair of East Sussex, and others involved in this transition. I will advocate for your opinions and ensure that our community’s voice is heard throughout this process.

While I acknowledge the concerns surrounding this decision, I remain optimistic about the potential opportunities it may bring to Peacehaven. I encourage everyone to focus on the facts and information we will gather as we navigate this change together.

Once we have a clearer picture, we can unite as a town to discuss how we can leverage these opportunities to benefit Peacehaven. Together, we can work towards a positive future for our community.”

We are aware that legal challenges to this decision may be brought forward, and we await further detail on this.

As we have previously said, whatever the outcome of LGR, PTC will be working hard to get the best for our town, we will be actively seeking opportunities, developing new ways of working, and ensuring that Peacehaven’s voice is heard in the Unitary Authority.

Further information is available at the following links:

• Peacehaven and Telscombe Neighbourhood Development Plan Referendum
• PTC-LGR-Response.pdf
• Town Clerk’s Comments on Local Government Reorganisation – 3rd June 2026
• Local government reorganisation: decision letter to East Sussex and Brighton and Hove council leaders
• Property and Assets Strategy
• Local Government Reorganisation Proposals
• Ministry of Housing: Local Government Consultation on the modification to the two unitary proposal received from East Sussex County Council, Eastbourne Borough Council, Hastings Borough Council, Lewes District Council and Rother District Council