Devolution and LGR

What is Devolution?

The decentralisation of powers, decision making and funding away from central Government to local democratically elected and accountable bodies elsewhere in England.

In Greater Essex, this will lead to the creation of a new single strategic authority for Essex. It will initially take the form of a combined county authority (of which ECC, Southend and Thurrock will be members). A mayoral combined county authority (MCCA) will follow in May 2026 when we expect a new mayor for Greater Essex will be directly elected by the public.

 

What is Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)?

LGR refers to the process of restructuring local councils, typically involving replacing existing two-tier (county and district) structures and or merging smaller existing unitary authorities into larger new single tier “unitary” authorities.

In Greater Essex, proposals are still being developed but, if agreed by government, would see all 15 principal councils replaced with a yet to be agreed number of new unitary councils from April 2028.

 

When will Devolution and LGR take place?

How will providers be affected?

We will be working closely with our suppliers as more details become known and we understand the impact on each contract.

 

Find out more

Explore the published proposal submissions, including executive summaries, on the Greater Essex Local Government Reorganisation Hub. The hub also provides latest information, news, and answers to frequently asked questions about the reorganisation process.