Browsing: Local Business & Services

Essex councils propose reorganising into five unitary authorities, replacing fifteen, to improve efficiency and service delivery. Essex Chambers of Commerce support this change, despite opposition from Reform UK controlling the county council and Thurrock.

Essex Chambers of Commerce reflects on a successful Festival of Business at Chelmsford City Racecourse, considers the potential impact of the Chancellor’s latest Budget, outlines what devolution and a new elected Mayor could mean for Essex, and urges residents and businesses to respond to the government’s consultation on local government reorganisation before 11 January.

In our last article we covered the issue of Local Government Reform, that is the proposed shake-up of local government structures, abolishing the twelve districts in Essex, the two unitary councils (including Southend) and the county council – and replacing them with a small number of unitary authorities (like Southend, only bigger). We speculated that there might be four or five new councils.

London Southend Airport has clinched the ‘Best Route Development & Marketing’ Award at Routes Europe 2025, celebrating its rapid growth, strong airline partnerships, and innovative marketing strategy. The airport saw a 133% increase in flights over the past year and continues to offer an accessible, cost-effective gateway to London with no slot constraints and a bold marketing approach.