The postponement of local elections due to the English devolution bill has sparked debate, with Lewes town council highlighting potential opportunities for hyperlocal democracy. In a letter, town clerk Veronique Poutrel argued that as combined authorities form, town and parish councils could take the lead in shaping place-based solutions driven by residents.
Poutrel noted that Sussex is among six counties on the government's priority programme for establishing a combined authority. She urged communities to engage with their most local decision-makers, stating that now is the time to help shape councils that reflect local needs and ambitions.
However, other readers criticised the delays as undemocratic. Sue Carroll of Rodmell, East Sussex, pointed out that the May 2025 local elections were cancelled, mayoral elections postponed until 2028, and county council elections delayed. She argued that allowing unelected councillors to run counties for years without a mandate is not justifiable.
Dr Richard Simmons of Chatham, Kent, suggested that Reform UK, having objected to cancelling local elections, should demand byelections in constituencies where MPs have defected to the party.
