What Local Government Reorganisation Could Look Like for Southend
We have previously covered the proposed devolution from central government to a Greater Essex combined authority. Linked to this process, under which an Essex mayor will be elected in Spring 2026, is Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).
Devolution transfers powers to a county-level strategic authority covering Essex County Council, Southend, and Thurrock. LGR, will bring more fundamental change, abolishing the county, Southend, Thurrock, and all twelve district councils, replacing them with new unitary authorities. This would create a single-tier local government for Essex.
Councils Split on Reform
All fifteen councils agree the need to reorganise, inevitably there is no agreement on what that should look like. Four different proposals have been submitted, which can be viewed at www.essexlgrhub.org/proposals. Government is expected to choose a preferred model before Christmas, launching a public consultation ahead of implementation by 2028. While the transition will require significant effort, it promises more cost-effective, higher-quality services.
The choice essentially lies between three, four, or five unitary authorities. Existing council areas will be kept intact, absorbed fully into one of the new bodies.
For Southend, the potential outcomes are:
Option 1: A South Essex unitary of Southend, Rochford, Castle Point, Basildon, and Thurrock (3-unitary model, proposed by Essex County Council).
Option 2: As above, but excluding Rochford (4-unitary model, proposed by Rochford).
Option 3: As above, but excluding Thurrock (alternative 4-unitary model, proposed by Thurrock).
Option 4: A new unitary of Southend, Rochford, and Castle Point (5-unitary model, proposed by Southend).
There is much at stake. At Essex Chambers, we want a structure that works for both residents and businesses, delivering growth and prosperity across the county. We will therefore study the options carefully before reaching our own conclusion.
If you would like to know more about Devolution and what lies ahead for the county, join our webinar on Wednesday 29 October. Places can be booked at essexchambers.co.uk/events-training.
By The Essex Chamber of Commerce