We’ve published proposals for how local government could be reorganised across Greater Essex to better serve you and your communities.
This is a big moment. It’s the most significant change to local government in Essex in over 50 years, and it’s all about making things simpler, more efficient and more responsive to your needs. The needs of our residents, businesses and communities have changed, and it’s important that councils do too so we can continue to meet them.
Right now, there are 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 replace the existing 15 councils and current, two-tier system, 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.
Councillor Kevin Bentley, Leader of Essex County Council, said: “This is a momentous point in the history of our great county. I’m incredibly proud of the work that’s gone into this proposal. It’s bold, forward-looking and puts people first. Importantly, it will help us achieve a bright future for everyone in Greater Essex.”
We’ll be discussing the proposal at our Cabinet and Full Council meetings on 18 September. Other proposals have also been developed by other councils in Greater Essex. All councils must submit their proposals to Government by 26 September.
What happens next?
The Government will review all the proposals coming forward from Essex and decide which will go forward to a public consultation in the autumn. That’s your chance to have your say on how local government should work for you.
Read the Proposal for Greater Essex.
Find out more about Local Government Reorganisation in Greater Essex and read other council’s proposals.