MP says devolution plans will make our councils worse off

Speaking after receiving confirmation that Hampshire County Council has been put onto the government’s fast-track devolution programme, Kit said: "We are fortunate to be served by two very good local authorities, Test Valley and Basingstoke and Deane Borough Councils, who are debt-free and have significant assets on their balance sheet.

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Hampshire County Council headquarters (Image: Local Democracy Reporting Service) "This has not happened by accident, it is down to decades of careful stewardship, which ultimately benefits residents as we can afford good public services. 

"Unfortunately, the government’s devolution programme now puts this at risk. If their plans go ahead, we would be amalgamated with Southampton and Portsmouth City Councils.

"Our local towns and villages in Hampshire are very different from port cities such as Portsmouth and Southampton.

"We have different challenges, priorities, needs, and identities — that can only be met by competent elected officials who live in, and understand, the areas they serve. 

"This needless reorganisation won’t come cheap, and ministers should be upfront about the cost and bureaucracy involved in making these large-scale changes.

"I’m sure most of us would rather see the money pumped into bin collections, fixing potholes and other essential services. 

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"These plans have also delayed May’s local elections, which was completely unnecessary and has undermined our valued democratic processes. 

"I have been informed that a consultation will be launched on these plans shortly. I will be opposing these needless and costly plans, and I would encourage you to do the same.

"One size certainly does not fit all when it comes to local governance."