New Forest projects to continue despite council reorganisation plans
Key community projects in the New Forest will continue as planned, despite government reforms, say New Forest District Council
Last updated 18th Apr 2025
Key community projects in the New Forest will continue as planned, despite government reforms set to abolish New Forest District Council as part of wider devolution changes.
The government’s fast-track devolution plans, recently approved, will see the current two-tier structure of local government replaced with larger strategic authorities led by elected mayors. Under the new system, services currently split between district and county councils will be consolidated into a single unitary authority.
Hampshire County Council, along with Isle of Wight Council, Portsmouth City Council and Southampton City Council, have been approved to join the fast-track scheme.
New Forest District Council has confirmed that, despite it's eventual closure under these reforms, it will press ahead with existing projects aimed at benefiting local communities.
Details of how and when the transition will take place have not yet been announced.