A major consultation on devolution for Greater Essex has been launched by the Government, marking a significant step in plans to transfer more powers from Westminster to local leaders.
The consultation, overseen by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), runs from 17th February to 13th April 2025. Residents, businesses, and community groups across Essex, Thurrock, and Southend-on-Sea are being urged to share their views on proposals to create a Mayoral Combined County Authority (MCCA) for the region.
What does devolution mean for Greater Essex?
Devolution is a process that gives local areas more control over decisions and funding, reducing reliance on central government. The Government has outlined a vision for every part of England to have some form of devolution, with a strong preference for areas to be led by an elected Mayor. Currently, over 34 million people in England already fall under a devolved authority, but Essex has yet to gain such powers.
If approved, the new ‘Greater Essex Combined County Authority‘ would bring together Essex County Council, Thurrock Council, and Southend-on-Sea City Council. A directly elected Mayor would oversee the authority, working alongside local councils rather than replacing them. This model aims to improve coordination, boost economic growth, and allow for decisions tailored to local needs.
A fast-track to mayoral devolution
The consultation follows an announcement by the Deputy Prime Minister on 5th February 2025, confirming that Greater Essex is among six new areas selected for the Government’s Devolution Priority Programme. This initiative fast-tracks regions towards establishing mayoral authorities, with the first elections set for May 2026.
Greater Essex joins Cumbria, Cheshire & Warrington, Norfolk & Suffolk, Sussex & Brighton, and Hampshire & the Solent in this accelerated process. Local leaders from Essex, Thurrock, and Southend-on-Sea have expressed their commitment to securing devolution and ensuring their communities benefit from greater control over transport, infrastructure, skills development, and local investment.
Have your say
Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of the Council, emphasised the importance of public participation, stating: “This is a major milestone in our devolution journey and an opportunity for everyone in the local area to shape the future of Greater Essex. I encourage residents, businesses, and organisations to share their views.”
The Government is gathering feedback before deciding whether to proceed with the necessary legislation. The consultation is open to all who live and work in the area, and more details can be found here: https://consult.communities.gov.uk/lggc/greater-essex-devolution-consultation/
You must submit your views before the 13th April deadline.
What happens next?
Should the devolution plans move forward, a Mayoral Combined County Authority would be formally established, with the first mayoral election taking place on 7th May 2026. The Mayor would be elected on a four-year term and would be accountable to voters across the three constituent councils.
With Essex on the path to potentially gaining more control over its future, this consultation represents a key opportunity for the public to have their say on how power is distributed across the region.