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Essex councils agree to explore new shared services

Three Essex councils have agreed to explore further joint working and shared services.

Basildon Borough Council, Brentwood Borough Council and Castle Point Borough Council have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore opportunities for partnership and collaborative working.

The agreement follows Basildon Council’s successful shared revenues and benefits service with Brentwood Borough Council.

Cllr Andrew Baggott, Leader of Basildon Council, said: “We are proud to build on the successful shared service we have developed with our neighbours. We commit to explore new opportunities with Brentwood and Castle Point to create a viable service proposition that delivers the best possible outcome for the people of all our boroughs.”

Cllr Chris Hossack, Leader of Brentwood Borough Council, added: “The Revs and Bens shared service between Brentwood and Basildon has been incredibly successful since our collaboration began. We proved this during the pandemic in the way we were able to quickly get government support grant cash into business accounts when they needed it most.

“We look forward to building on that service success to explore the potential of new opportunities with Castle Point.”

Cllr Andrew Sheldon, Leader of Castle Point Borough Council, said: “This MOU is a fantastic opportunity to improve services for our residents by exploring ways in which we can strengthen ties with our neighbouring boroughs.

“It’s a logical and economically effective way to operate in the current challenging economic climate and our residents rightly expect us to identify ways to provide best value for money.”