Essex is already full of potential - from its vibrant towns and cities to its rural and coastal communities. With the benefits that local government reorganisation (LGR) will bring, we have a real opportunity to fully unlock this potential, build on our existing strengths and invest in its future.
We know that local government already does great things, but we also know it could work better. LGR will simplify local council structures, enable us to work more efficiently and reduce duplication. The current two-tier council system (county and district councils) will be replaced with a single-tier unitary authority which is responsible for all the local services in a particular area.
I believe that three new unitary councils is the right way forward for Greater Essex - one in south Essex, one in mid Essex, and one in north Essex. This number would ensure that local services like waste collection, libraries and social care – services we know are important to people – remain local and are delivered consistently across all areas. It would mean local identities remain visible and strong, with greater opportunities for local decision-making within communities and neighbourhoods.
By merging 15 councils into three, we save money on the structures of local government and maximise opportunities to reinvest in the future of Greater Essex. The money we save will be used to fund frontline services and the priorities we know are important to you. Because that is ultimately what is at the heart of this work.
This is a real opportunity for local government and one we must seize boldly. That’s why we’re developing a robust business case for LGR – one that puts residents and businesses first. Our business case has been shaped by community and partner insight and informed by expert, independent research and analysis.
The National Centre for Social Research (NatCen), recently carried out a survey on behalf of the 15 councils across Greater Essex, which will be published this week. They found, among other things, that most people asked supported the principles of LGR, particularly if it led to better services and clearer accountability.
One of the top priorities for how residents wanted their local council to be run was having services that were good value for money. Over half of residents wanted to prioritise ensuring public funds are spent efficiently, followed by improving service quality and clear accountability. Three councils would be the most financially sustainable option for Greater Essex and help us to realise this.
We have always been clear that we will be guided by what the evidence tells us. And while the NatCen survey didn’t ask people for a preference on the number or location of new councils, given this insight and the extensive evidence we have, we believe three councils will achieve the best possible value and outcomes. It is vital they are large enough to deliver services efficiently, but local enough to stay connected to the communities they serve.
I’d encourage you to read the full findings from the survey.
Change can be challenging, but it also brings opportunity. Council leaders hold different views on the best number and location of new councils – there will be more than one business case going forward to the government. But what unites us is a desire to build a future where services are stronger, communities are empowered and the people who live and work in Greater Essex can thrive.
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