Our Proposal for Greater Essex has been approved for consideration by the Government. This is our ambitious vision for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Greater Essex.
The proposal was debated by our Cabinet and all Essex County Council Members during extraordinary meetings held today (Thursday 18 September).
Following the debate, Full Council and Cabinet proceeded to approve the proposal. This will now be submitted to Government on Friday 26 September.
Leader of the council, Councillor Kevin Bentley, said the approval of the proposal marked "a moment in history".
He said during Full Council: “This is a momentous day in the life of Essex County Council, what remains in the life of Essex County Council, all the district councils as we know them and unitary councils in Essex.
“It’s no secret I have been a long proponent of Local Government Reorganisation, and indeed introducing a Mayor.
“I personally believe, and know many people in this room believe, that this is the best future for the residents of Essex, the way we run local government and the way we secure funding and investment in the future.”
Other councils in Greater Essex have developed different proposals based on four and five unitary councils.
However, we have used extensive evidence to inform our proposal. This evidence points to fewer councils being able to achieve the greatest benefits.
The Proposal for Greater Essex has resident priorities at its heart. It also ensures the new councils will be financially sustainable and fit for the future.
All proposals must be submitted to Government by 26 September.
The Government will review them and decide which proposal, or proposals, will be put forward to public consultation. This consultation is expected to launch in the autumn. It will give residents the opportunity to have their say on the future of local government.
Read the Proposal for Greater Essex.
Find out more about LGR in Greater Essex.