Initial vision for the future shape of local government in Greater Essex is published

March 13, 2025

Councils across Greater Essex are set to discuss the interim plan on how Local Government Reorganisation could transform local authorities to achieve more for residents and businesses.

All 15 councils across Greater Essex will consider the plan, prior to the deadline for it to be submitted to the Government on 21 March.

At this stage, there are no firm recommendations regarding the number of unitary authorities or their geographic borders. However, due to geographic considerations, Southend-on-Sea City Council prefers a five-unitary model that would include Southend-on-Sea City Council, Castle Point Borough Council, and Rochford District Council combining into a single, larger unitary authority with an approximate population of 356,000.

Councillor Daniel Cowan, Leader of Southend-on-Sea City Council, said: "The interim plan for Local Government Reorganisation presents a transformative opportunity for Greater Essex. By discussing and refining this plan, we aim to create a more efficient and responsive system that better serves our residents and businesses.

“While there are no firm recommendations yet regarding the number of unitary authorities or their geographic borders, Southend-on-Sea City Council prefers a five-unitary model. This model would see the creation of a new unitary authority, combining Southend-on-Sea City Council, Castle Point Borough Council, and Rochford District Council into a single, larger unitary authority.

“We look forward to collaborating with all 15 councils across Greater Essex to ensure this plan truly reflects the aspirations of our community before submitting it to the Government on 21 March."

The interim plan and reports have been initially published on 12 March 2025 by Southend-on-Sea City Council and will be considered at Full Council on 20 March 2025.