Chichester District Council Report for November 2026
November 2026 - Local Government Reform update, Christmas Events in the District, Christmas bin collections
Published: 10 November 2026
District Councillor Report – November 2026
For full report and the table of Christmas bin collection dates see attached document
Local Government Reform- UPDATE:
West Sussex is one of 15 areas where a decision is still under review, meaning that we are unlikely to hear about a decision for our area until early in the new year. However, some areas may be informed before Christmas. All councils are expected to hold shadow elections for the new authorities in 2028, and all new councils will be come into effect in April 2029.
What does this mean for us? We expect a decision for West Sussex to be made in early new year. The Government has confirmed that all options remain under consideration. However, because East Sussex and Brighton & Hove are now progressing separately, we know that any future proposals affecting us will be contained within the West Sussex boundary.
Although the delay means we will need to wait longer for a decision, it provides additional time to plan for what will be a complex transition. Significant progress has already been made alongside our partners, and we will continue building on that work as preparations move forward.
We will be going ahead with district council elections in May 2027, shadow unitary elections in May 2028 and the new council(s) will come into effect in April 2029.
Are the Government still committed to local government reorganisation? – Yes. Ministers have reaffirmed their commitment to local government reorganisation but have said they need more time to ensure the final arrangements deliver the best outcomes for local communities.
To find out more about local government reorganisation in West Sussex please visit: www.chichester.gov.uk/devolution or www.shapingwestsussex.org
Christmas in Chichester District
Chichester lights switch-on
We’ll be supporting the Chichester BID with their annual lights switch-on event which takes place on Saturday 21 November from 5pm, kicking off festivities in the city. www.chichesterBID.co.uk
Petworth Christmas Cracker event
Petworth’s event takes place on Saturday 5 December 11am, until 7pm. The event includes the Christmas Lights Switch-on and there will be entertainment throughout the day. Visitors will be able to enjoy a variety of stalls, plus there will be children’s rides in Golden Square. The lights will be switched on by a special guest at approximately 6/6.30pm.
Midhurst
Midhurst Town Council will run their annual Christmas Street Party from 4pm – 8pm on Friday 4 December in and around the Market Square, including live music; fairground rides; late night shopping; an artisan market; the popular Santa’s Grotto and much more. In addition, the town will have their Winter Market on Saturday 5 December from 9am until 2pm.
In addition, the town will have their Winter Market on Saturday 5 December from 9am until 2pm. More information is available at: www.midhurst-tc.gov.uk
The Novium Museum
The Novium Museum will be holding an Indoor Christmas Market on Sunday 13 December, 10am until 2pm, free entry.
Chichester Festive Market 4, 5, 6 and 11, 12, 13 December East Street and North Street, Chichester
Christmas bin collections – see attached document for bin collection dates
Cllr Brett Burkhart is available on 07876 594168 or bburkhart@chichester.gov.uk
Cllr Ellie Newbery is available on 01428 656941 or enewbery@chichester.gov.uk