Cabinet 22 September 2025
Epping Forest District Council has taken decisive steps to shape the future of local government at its latest Cabinet meeting,
Councillors endorsed a proposal to support the creation of 3 new unitary authorities for Essex.
Cabinet also agreed new measures to safeguard Hatfield Forest, strengthened its approach to risk management, and reviewed the latest financial outlook as it continues to navigate a challenging economic climate.
Support for 3-unitary model
Epping Forest District Council is set to endorse a preferred option for reorganising Essex’s local government into new unitary authorities, as required by the Government.
4 business cases have been developed for 3, 4, and 5 unitaries, and after analysis, council’s backing at the last council meeting, and resident and stakeholder engagement, cabinet has agreed to support the 3-unitary model.
This model is projected to deliver the best balance of financial sustainability, service quality, and local representation, with an estimated net benefit of £86 million after 5 years and a payback period of 2.7 years. The new structure would empower local neighbourhood committees, streamline services, and support economic and housing growth across Essex.
The council’s formal endorsement will be submitted to the government by the deadline of 26 September 2025.
Council adopts strategy for Hatfield Forest site of special scientific interest
The council has adopted a new partnership and governance agreement to protect the Hatfield Forest site of special scientific interest (SSSI) and national nature reserve (NNR).
This agreement, developed with neighbouring councils and the National Trust, will secure funding from new housing developments in the East of Harlow masterplan area to mitigate visitor pressure on the forest.
The strategy includes access management, habitat protection, and ongoing monitoring, with costs apportioned based on the impact of local development. This ensures the council meets its legal duty to conserve biodiversity while enabling sustainable growth.
Corporate risk
The council’s updated corporate risk register highlights key risks facing the district, including homelessness demand, cyber security, and climate change.
2 new strategic risks have been added, the impact of local government reform and oversight of council subsidiaries. The report confirms that risk management is embedded across all council operations, with regular reviews to ensure effective mitigation.
Budget monitoring quarter 1 2025 to 2026
The first quarter financial report for 2025 to 2026 shows the council is facing budget pressures, particularly from increased homelessness costs and volatile recycling markets.
The general fund is forecasting a £0.57 million deficit, while the housing revenue account is performing better than expected and capital spending is below budget.
The council is taking proactive steps to manage these pressures and remains committed to achieving a balanced budget by year-end. Key performance indicators, such as prompt payment of invoices, are on target.
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