There are just a few days left to have your say on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Greater Essex.
The Government’s consultation invites the views of residents, businesses, partners and those working in the area. It closes at midnight on on Sunday 11 January 2026.
Our proposal, supported by Braintree District Council and Epping Forest District Council – ‘Three new councils, one bright future’ – is one of four proposals being consulted on. It recommends moving from the current 15-council structure to a more streamlined, sustainable model of three new unitary councils.
All proposals were submitted to Government on 26 September 2025 following extensive collaboration, evidence gathering and engagement across Greater Essex.
After reviewing all four submissions against set evaluation criteria, Government confirmed they would invite views on all of them.
Councillor Kevin Bentley, Leader of Essex County Council, said: “We are one step closer to creating a more effective, empowered and community focused local government system.
“This consultation is a vital opportunity for people across Greater Essex to tell the Government what they think of the proposals and I would urge them to have their say before the deadline on Sunday.”
The Government is expected to decide on the final model for Greater Essex in the spring.
Find out how to take part in the consultation.
Read all the LGR proposals for Greater Essex submitted to the Government.