Majority of Council Leaders in Essex give public backing to keeping ‘local government as local as possible’
Ten Council Leaders in Essex representing all the traditional major political parties have demonstrated their firm and joint, public support for the creation of five new unitary authorities across Greater Essex to replace the current 15 councils.
· This model is locally rooted, preserving community identity, and service delivery;
- Has been developed with strong support from a significant number of MPs;
- Has the backing of Council Leaders from across the traditional main political parties, including Conservative, Labour, Liberal- Democrat and Independent;
- Public consultation shows the majority prefer the status quo, but when change is considered, five councils is the best fit;
- According to audited figures, the five unitary authorities saves over £100m per year, compared to just £25m for three unitary authorities.
In a joint open letter, all ten Leaders state that ‘The people of Essex deserve councils that are local, accountable, and responsive.’ They also go on to state that ‘Reorganisation should promote growth by respecting the geography of this hugely diverse county and by bringing government closer to residents, not further away.’
Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of Southend-on-Sea City Council and Chair of the 5UA group of councils, said:
“Since the Devolution White Paper made it clear that Essex must reorganise, I have advocated for keeping local government local. This is the only credible way forward for Essex and I’m glad to see a majority of councils and a significant number of MPs are showing their support for this.
“The five councils will help protect local services against a small number of mega councils, while delivering real public sector reform, and delivers more savings than the alternatives.”
" Many people are concerned about the costs and disruption from reorganisation. We have made clear in this joint letter, that not only do the majority of Essex councils support this proposal but we will all work together across Greater Essex, whatever the final outcome from Government.”
Cllr Dave Blackwell, Leader of Castle Point Borough Council said: “The five-unitary proposal is the best option for Castle Point offering stronger representation while delivering real value for our residents. By supporting the five-unitary model, we’re helping shape a future where Castle Point’s voice is not only heard but helps lead the way.”
Cllr Warren Gibson, Deputy Leader of Castle Point Borough Council and Portfolio Holder for LGR said: “We’ve worked hard to shape a proposal that reflects the needs of our residents and we’re ready to lead the way. The five-unitary model offers real opportunities to improve services, strengthen local identity and deliver better value for our communities.”