In the news: Basildon Council Welcomes UK Government's White Paper on English Devolution - 'Power and Partnerships: Foundations for Growth'

The Council sees this as a landmark opportunity to create a simpler, more effective governance structure in Essex, with the introduction of a Combined Authority, a directly elected Mayor, and the abolition of the outdated two-tier local government system.

The Council has consistently argued that the current outdated governance structure is holding Essex back. Over the last 25 years, on every major economic indicator, Essex has not progressed. This is a critical moment for the county to address these failures and create a system of governance that can deliver for its residents and compete with the best-performing regions in the country.

While the White Paper does not specify the number of unitary authorities to be created in Essex, Basildon Council strongly advocates for its preferred option of a Combined Authority comprising five unitary authorities.

This model, outlined in Basildon's recent leaflet "Devolution to Essex and its Local Governance," strikes the right balance between efficiency, accountability, and local representation.

Importantly, this model enjoys widespread all-party support across Essex and has also garnered backing from central government, reflecting a shared commitment to deliver meaningful reform.

Councillor Gavin Callaghan, Leader of Basildon Council, said: "This White Paper marks a bold step forward for Essex. The creation of a Combined Authority, led by an elected Mayor, alongside the abolition of the two-tier system, will provide the simplicity, clarity, and efficiency that residents deserve. Our preferred model of five unitary authorities will enable Essex to deliver better services, stronger accountability, and significant cost savings, while allowing each area to retain a clear sense of local identity.

"I particularly welcome the fact that the proposed mayoral system for Essex will be the first of its kind in the South East of England. This is a chance for Essex to lead the way, setting a benchmark for the region and demonstrating how streamlined governance and strong leadership can deliver real benefits for our residents and businesses."

Why Five Unitaries?

Basildon Council highlights the advantages of its preferred model:

1. Efficient governance: Reducing the current 15 councils to 5 unitary authorities will simplify decision-making, eliminate duplication, and save significant costs.
2. Streamlined regional planning: A Combined Authority with a Mayor will oversee Essex-wide priorities, while five unitary authorities will bring decision-making closer to local communities.
3. Stronger democratic accountability: A directly elected Mayor and fewer councils will provide clear leadership and ensure greater transparency for residents.
4. Balanced local representation: Five unitary authorities allow for meaningful geographical areas with strong economic bases, maintaining local identity while ensuring effective governance.
5. Accelerated economic growth and housing delivery: Unified governance will attract investment, spur innovation, and fast-track housing projects to meet Essex's growing needs.

Basildon's Vision for Reform

The Council emphasises that the success of any devolution deal depends on abolishing the inefficient two-tier system and replacing it with a structure that balances local autonomy with regional coordination. A Combined Authority of five unitary authorities is Basildon's preferred option to achieve this balance.

Basildon Council is committed to working with the Government and other stakeholders to ensure that these reforms deliver real and lasting benefits for Essex's residents, enabling the county to realize its full potential as a hub for economic growth, housing development, and infrastructure investment.

Ends

Published 16 December 2024.

Contact Basildon Council's Press Office at pressoffice@basildon.gov.uk for further information.