Colchester City Council has taken a major step toward shaping the future of local government across Essex, with cross-party support backing its approach to devolution and local government reorganisation.
Following a Full Council meeting on 17 March, councillors from all parties endorsed the mandate for Cllr David King, Leader of the Council, to negotiate the best outcomes for Colchester as part of a wider Essex reorganisation.
Cllr King said: “The government has made it clear that devolution and local government reorganisation across England must happen. As Leader, I’ve ensured that our approach remains consensual, cross-party, and focused on securing the best possible outcomes for our residents, businesses, and communities.
“Our recent council meeting provided an open forum for debate, and I am grateful for the broad support from all parties. We agreed on the key issues, including how we manage debt and deliver for residents now while preparing for a sustainable future. We also have a clear timeline – an agreement across Essex on the way ahead is needed by 26 September, including recommendations to the government as to the number of new unitary councils.”
Council leaders across Essex have echoed these concerns, and Colchester will continue to work closely with them and the government to ensure that any reorganisation plan avoids placing unsustainable financial burdens on local authorities.
Cllr King confirmed that he has now approved the interim business plan, due to be submitted to the government on 21 March, on behalf of Essex councils and the Police, Fire, and Crime Commissioner.
“This is just the start,” he added. “We have a mountain to climb to confirm the way forward and manage the transition effectively. We will continue to work across Essex with all parties and leaders to secure the best possible outcomes – particularly with Braintree and Tendring councils as potential partners in a new Northeast Essex council, alongside Essex County Council.”
Page last reviewed: 19 March 2025