THE government has launched a consultation calling for opinions about how Essex councils will be changed as part of local government reorganisation.
Councils across the county are encouraging residents, businesses and community groups to take part and share their views.
The government is consulting on the four proposals submitted to the government by Greater Essex councils back in September.
These plans set out different options for local government reorganisation (LGR) in the county:
- Southend Council, along with nine district, borough and city councils, has put forward a plan for five unitary councils
- Thurrock Council’s proposals focus on creating four new unitary councils for Greater Essex
- Separately, Rochford Council has put forward a different proposal for a four unitary model
- Essex County Council, along with two district councils, is proposing a configuration of three new unitary councils
Read More: Essex reorganisation 2025: all proposed changes to councils
Local Government Reorganisation is about how local government powers and funding are organised between councils.
The consultation aims to help the government understand what people and organisations think about the proposed changes.
It aims to simplify council structures by creating new, bigger councils that work better, making it easier for residents to access and navigate services.
Kevin Bentley, Leader of Essex County Council, said: “This is a proud moment for Greater Essex.
"The Government’s decision to move forward with public consultation is a clear vote of confidence in our vision and the incredibly focused work behind each proposal.
“We are one step closer to creating a more effective, empowered and community-focused local government system, and we look forward to hearing what people think about our proposal for the first time.”
David King, leader of Colchester Council, said all councils are working together to find the most effective solution.
Mr King said: “While all councils in Essex are united in recognising LGR as the right direction for the future, there are differing views on how best to deliver it.
"Whatever proposal the government decides to take forward, all proposals offer a valid vision for the future that aims to provide opportunities to collaborate, strengthen financial resilience and create more sustainable local services.
"All councils share a commitment to work together to make Essex even better and find the most effective solution that improves local government services and brings positive change for our communities.
"Please do make use of this opportunity to read the proposals, think about what kind of local government you want, and make your voice heard.”
Daniel Cowan, leader of Southend Council and Chair of the five council group, said: “I believe we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape how local government works for our communities. We owe it to the people of Essex to provide a system that they can identify with and that is built for the future. I urge everyone to take part.
“The model for five councils in Greater Essex that we have supported, along with nine other councils, is locally rooted, preserving community identity and service delivery.
“We also know that bigger isn't always better. According to audited figures, the five unitary authorities proposal in Essex saves over £100m per year, compared to just £25m for three unitary authorities.
“However, we also know that whatever the outcome of the Government’s re-organisation, we will work together with all the councils across Greater Essex to put the needs of our residents first.”
Mark Stephenson, leader of Tendring Council, said he is committed to putting the needs of residents first.
Mr Stephenson said: "We have engaged with the government throughout its drive for Local Government Reorganisation, and I would encourage everyone to make their voice heard in the consultation which has now launched.
“The model for five councils in Greater Essex that we have supported, along with nine other councils, best meets our key criteria for localism, delivering a strong sense of place, supporting existing partnerships, high-quality service delivery and financial sustainability.
"We also believe that bigger isn't always better.
“However, whatever the outcome of the Government’s re-organisation, we will work together with all the councils across Greater Essex to put the needs of our residents first.
“We understand people are concerned about the cost and possible disruption caused by Local Government Reorganisation; our commitment is that continued delivery of our services for residents is absolutely critical throughout this process.”
Graham Butland, leader of Braintree Council, said it is important for residents to have their say on the LGR plans.
Mr Butland said: “This is a vital opportunity for residents to share their views on four proposals that could reshape local government in Essex - the biggest change in over 50 years.
"Our goal for LGR is to build a stronger, simpler council system that works well for local people.
"We’d urge everyone in Essex, whether you live or work here, to have your say to help shape how decisions are made, services are delivered, and communities are represented in the future.”
Residents can take part in the consultation online at https://consult.communities.gov.uk/local-government-reorganisation/essex-southend-on-sea-thurrock/.
The consultation opens today (November 19) and closes on January 11.
Paper copies of the proposals will be made available at all Essex libraries.
All councils are also invited to respond to the consultation.
The results of the consultation will help inform the government to decide a preferred option on how local government is structured in Greater Essex, which is expected in Spring 2026.
New unitary councils are planned to go live in April 2028.
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