Local authorities across Essex, Southend-on-Sea, and Thurrock have made significant progress in developing proposals for local government reorganisation (LGR), with the aim of creating more efficient, accountable, and community-focused structures. The Greater Essex Interim Plan, submitted to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) on Friday, 21 March, sets out a bold vision to simplify governance, enhance service delivery, and unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation.
The proposed reorganisation seeks to replace the current complex system of local governance with a streamlined model that empowers communities and improves outcomes for residents and businesses alike. Greater Essex leaders are united in their ambition to build resilient and sustainable local government structures that can address long-standing challenges, including pockets of deprivation, health inequalities, climate impacts, and strained infrastructure. By aligning LGR with the creation of a new Greater Essex Combined County Authority the region is poised to strengthen its strategic capacity while delivering essential services more effectively at a local level.
Council leaders and partners, including the Police, Fire & Crime Commissioner, have worked collaboratively to develop these proposals, guided by a commitment to public service and the Nolan principles of honesty, integrity, and accountability. Four dedicated working groups are addressing critical aspects of the reorganisation, focusing on delivering value for money, maintaining high-quality public services, reflecting community identity, and ensuring the new structures support devolution.
Discussions have explored multiple unitary configurations, with the majority of leaders expressing an initial preference for a five-unitary model that maintains a sense of place while ensuring financial sustainability and operational efficiency. Further evidence and consultation will determine the final model, with all councils committed to a rigorous, evidence-based approach.
Engagement with stakeholders has been extensive, including dialogue with business leaders, health and care partnerships, universities, and local MPs. Additionally, residents will continue to be informed and consulted through a staged communication plan as the proposals evolve. The opportunity to align LGR with devolution presents a unique chance to enhance the region’s economic potential while ensuring that public services remain responsive and accountable.
The estimated costs of mobilising this transformative change range between £5 million and £7.5 million, and leaders are seeking government support to cover these costs. The final proposals are expected to be submitted in September 2025, with implementation anticipated by April 2028.
This ambitious plan represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape local government in Greater Essex, ensuring that communities across the region benefit from stronger governance, better services, and enhanced opportunities for growth and prosperity.
Find out more: Greater Essex Interim Plan - submitted to MHCLG.pdf
Pictured above: Essex Leader's and Chief Executives meet on 21 March 2025.
Pictured above: Essex Leader's and Chief Executives meet on 21 March 2025.
Page last reviewed: 24 March 2025