Government launches devolution consultation for Greater Essex
The Government has launched a public consultation seeking views on the creation of a Mayoral Combined County Authority in Greater Essex.
Information and questionnaires went live on the Government’s GOV.UK website on Monday 17 February 2025.
Public consultation
Details are available through the following links:
- Read the open consultation for Greater Essex devolution on GOV.UK
- Share your views on the Greater Essex devolution consultation
The consultation closes at 11.59pm on Sunday 13 April 2025.
Scope of the consultation
This consultation seeks views, particularly from interested parties, including those who live and work across Greater Essex on the effect of establishing a Mayoral Combined County Authority in the area.
It includes questions on the proposed geography and how the Combined County Authority will make decisions, together with questions on the effects of working across this geography through a Mayoral Combined County Authority.
The consultation specifically asks about:
- The proposed geography
- Governance arrangements
- Supporting the economy
- Improving social outcomes
- Improving local government services
- Improving the local natural environment
- Supporting the interests and needs of local communities and reflect local identities
Creation of a Mayor for Greater Essex
To be clear, this consultation is not about the Local Government Reorganisation of Epping Forest and other district and borough councils into unitary authorities. That process will take place separately and subsequently.
As you would expect, the Government is asking Essex County Council, Thurrock and Southend-on-Sea unitaries, and all the district and borough councils of Essex to support and promote the consultation to as broad an audience of residents and stakeholders as possible. We are expecting further marketing materials to help us promote its publicity campaign. In the meantime I have asked for the publication of the basic information to the council website, and on social media.
The creation of a Mayor for Greater Essex is an opportunity to shape the delivery of public services for decades to come. I would urge as many residents and stakeholders to respond as possible for the benefit not only of our own local communities, but also for the whole of Greater Essex.
Councillor Chris Whitbread, Leader of Epping Forest District Council
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