Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation

Details about plans for devolution and local government reorganisation in Greater Essex.

Devolution

Devolution is the transfer of powers and funding from UK government to local authority level. It is important because decisions are made closer to the local people, communities and businesses they affect.

Devolution would provide greater freedoms and flexibilities for councils to work more effectively to improve public services and outcomes for residents and businesses.

Local government reorganisation (LGR)

The government wants councils to be simpler, so it’s clear who is in charge of local services. This will help councils be more efficient and make councils work better.

Right now, Essex has 2 levels of councils – smaller ones like borough, city and district councils, and a county council, Essex County Council. Some places, like Thurrock and Southend-on-Sea, already have just one council that does everything. Some areas, including the Epping Forest district have a town, parish or community council. This reorganisation process does not affect these very local councils. It’s hard to know who does what.

We want to make it easier for everyone to know who is responsible for what and how we can work together to make Essex even better.

News

News on devolution and local government reorganisation.