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Community Governance Reviews - Phase Two

Havant Borough Council (HBC) is undertaking Community Governance Reviews (CGR) for Emsworth and Hayling Island, following petitions in both areas in 2025.

What is CGR?

CGR is a statutory process that allows the Council to consider whether changes are needed to the way local communities are represented and governed. Terms of Reference for the CGR were developed which set out the scope, principles, responsibilities, consultation activity, and schedule for the review.

The First Phase of Consultation

The first phase of the CGR (open between 5 January – 23 March 2026) looked at whether a new parish council should be created for Emsworth and Hayling Island. It also asked whether alternative forms of community representation could have been more appropriate or whether no change to local governance is preferred.

1,574 responses were received the Hayling Island consultation. In Emsworth 1,441 responses were received. Over 80% of respondents in both areas were in favour of a parish council.

Findings for both consultations were presented to Full Council on 20 May 2026, where a decision to continue to Phase Two was agreed and new Terms of Reference for the CGR process (with updated timelines) were published.

About Phase Two

Having considered the findings from the first phase of consultation, it has been agreed to consult on the possible creation of a civil parish council on Hayling Island. The following proposals have been informed by consultation findings, expert advice and best practice. We are keen gather your feedback on our proposals for CGR in Hayling Island. We are also keen to understand, what, if any, impact our proposals may have on you whether you live, work or visit Hayling Island.

Phase Two presents a consultation that looks at proposals for warding, the number of councillors, the initial estimate for a council tax precept and the initial name of the authority in both Emsworth and Hayling Island.


Have your say

You can find out more about proposals for each area and have your say by selecting either the Emsworth or Hayling Island tabs. On the pages you can:

  • Find out more, including refreshed FAQs.
  • Take Phase Two consultation surveys by selecting either Emsworth or Hayling Island tabs.
  • Download Word versions of the survey.
  • Sign up for updates.

Events

We are also holding local drop- in events in both Hayling Island and Emsworth. Come along to find out more, complete a paper survey or browse our information boards.

  • Hayling Island Community Centre, Station Rd, Hayling Island PO11 0HB Monday 1 June 2026, 3 - 7pm and Thursday 11 June, 10 – 2pm
  • Emsworth Community Centre, North St, Emsworth PO10 7DD Monday 8 June, 10 - 2pm
  • Emsworth Baptist Church, North St, Emsworth PO10 7BY Wednesday 17 June 3 – 7pm

Next steps

The consultation closes on 2 July 2026. After the consultation has finished, results will be analysed and presented to Full Council to decide on the formation of a new parish council.

If you need an alternative version of this information, please contact: 023 9244 6019.

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