What Hampshire's Council Reorganisation Means for Eastleigh Residents
Eastleigh Borough Council will cease to exist as a separate entity by April 2028. The government has chosen a five-unitary model for Hampshire. Here is what will change and what will stay the same.
In March 2026, the government announced it had chosen 'Option 1A' for the reorganisation of local government in Hampshire. Under the plan, the current two-tier system (Hampshire County Council plus 11 district and borough councils) will be replaced by five new unitary authorities.
Eastleigh Borough Council — which has governed the borough since 1974 and been consistently controlled by the Liberal Democrats — will cease to exist as a separate entity. Its functions will be absorbed into a new 'South West Hampshire' unitary authority, alongside Southampton City Council and a number of parishes currently in the New Forest district.
Timeline
- May 2027: Elections to the new unitary councils
- April 2028: New councils take full statutory powers
- Eastleigh Borough Council: Continues to operate until April 2028
Why is this happening?
The government cited the need for savings and more efficient public services. The projected saving from the five-unitary model is at least £63.9 million per year once the new structures are fully operational. Hampshire County Council had significant financial pressures that were seen as a trigger for the review.
A public consultation ran from November 2025 to January 2026. Eastleigh Borough Council's official position was to support 'Option 1A' — the five-unitary model ultimately chosen.
What it means for residents
Day-to-day local services are unlikely to change significantly in the short term. Refuse collection, planning decisions, parks, and leisure services will continue under whatever arrangements are made during the transition. Specific services will transfer to the new South West Hampshire unitary from April 2028.
Council tax decisions will be made by the new unitary councils from 2027/28 onwards, which may affect the rates paid by residents.
Local councillors will continue to represent their areas until May 2027, when elections for the new unitaries will take place.
Local elections, May 2026
The May 2026 elections — held on 7 May 2026 — were the last scheduled full-council elections for Eastleigh Borough Council. The Liberal Democrats retained control for a 31st year, winning 14 of the 15 seats being contested. Reform UK attracted significant vote shares but won no seats. Bishopstoke ward was held by an Independent candidate.
Sources: Eastleigh Borough Council; Wikipedia — 2026 Eastleigh Borough Council election