There are currently 15 councils across Greater Essex. We believe that’s too many. Our proposal recommends moving to a three council model – one each for north, mid, and south Essex.
These new councils would be:
- North Essex: Colchester, Tendring, Braintree and Uttlesford
- Mid Essex: Chelmsford, Brentwood, Epping Forest, Harlow and Maldon
- South Essex: Southend, Thurrock, Basildon, Castle Point and Rochford
These new councils would replace the existing 15 councils and be designed around real communities, local economies and the services you rely on.
We want councils that are:
- big enough to deliver essential services well
- local enough to stay connected to you and your neighbourhood
- clearer in how decisions are made and who’s accountable to you
Our proposal is based on months of research, analysis and conversations with partners. It’s designed to meet the Government’s criteria for Local Government Reorganisation and to reflect what matters most to you.
Read the Proposal for Greater Essex (PDF, 11.59 MB)
Read the overview of the Proposal for Greater Essex (PDF, 1.71 MB)
Read the summary of the Proposal for Greater Essex (PDF, 962.96 KB)
The Proposal for Greater Essex was approved at Cabinet 18 September. It will be submitted to government on 26 September 2025.
Appendix and documents relating to the Proposal for Greater Essex
Read the Greater Essex Proposal Appendix (PDF, 6.55 MB)
Proposals from other councils
Alongside our proposal, Southend-on-Sea City Council is leading a proposal for five councils. Thurrock Council is developing a proposal based on four and Rochford Council have also submitted a different proposal for four councils.
Visit the Essex LGR Hub website for more information.
The government will consider all proposals before deciding which proposals will go forward to public consultation. This is anticipated in the autumn.