The Government has today published its long-anticipated White Paper on devolution, setting out proposals for greater local decision-making and opportunities for council reorganisation.
Cllr David King, Leader of Colchester City Council said: “We now have some clarity on the Government’s proposals. It appears they are set on fundamental change to how local government is organised.
“Devolution is supported as it should bring money, powers and or influence over important issues such as infrastructure, investment, transport, and skills to a more local level. This could bring benefits and opportunities in the longer term for our residents and businesses, and Essex as a whole. But changes of this scale including sweeping away District Councils to form larger ‘unitary’ local authorities risk disruption and dislocation when we, like our partners, are already hard pressed. We will now move quickly to review the White Paper, collaborate with other Essex authorities, and work alongside partners and cross-party representatives to achieve the best outcomes for our city and its residents.
“Colchester City Council will continue to engage with partners across Essex and the Government, ensuring a collaborative and evidence-based response to the Government’s proposals and once the English Devolution Bill is introduced.”
Page last reviewed: 17 December 2024