We are holding an extraordinary Full Council meeting on Friday 10 January 2025. In it, councillors will discuss whether we should take part in the Government’s devolution priority programme. As well as this, they will discuss whether we should commit to local government reorganisation.
The Government recently notified us that if we wish to be part of the programme, we must write to them to confirm by 10 January. This would be a joint letter from Essex County Council, Southend-on-Sea City Council and Thurrock Council.
The letter can also request permission to postpone our 2025 local elections.
All 75 Essex County Councillors are invited to take part in the debate. Our Leader, Councillor Kevin Bentley, will make the final decision for Essex County Council following this.
Councillor Bentley said:
I have been very clear that there is a road to a better Essex for all who live here, and the way we will get there is through devolution. This presents us with an opportunity for growth and productivity across the county like no other. Linked to this is the proposed reorganisation of council structures which, as the White Paper sets out, is intended to drive greater efficiencies, help deliver better outcomes for people and strengthen accountability to the public.
“This decision is a momentous point in our history and a once in a lifetime chance to improve outcomes for Essex. I look forward to discussing this in January and continuing to engage positively with our partners.”
At this stage, no decisions have been made. Southend-on-Sea City Council and Thurrock Council will hold their own meetings during the week commencing Monday 6 January 2025.
Read more about our response to the Government's English Devolution White Paper.
You can watch our Full Council meeting live at 10am on 10 January on the ‘ECC democracy’ YouTube channel.