The projected financial prospects of any newly created unitary councils in East Sussex has prompted Wealden District Council’s lead members to pause their commitment to the One East Sussex Model being developed by East Sussex and district and borough councils, whilst they explore other options available to them.

If a single East Sussex is formed it would become a £1.17 billion business. Taking into account all six councils’ budget forecasts going forward, it is forecast that any new One Sussex authority on 1 April 2028, the date when all councils would come together, would start with an annual deficit of £49m which over the first five years would rise to £61m.

Please see below for a media release for a local reorganisation update at Wealden District Council.

Wealden District Council – Local Government Reorganisation - Wealden District Council

The Parish Clerk has asked Wealden Council what, if anything, residents can do if they have already completed the survey approving the One East Sussex Model.