From Tom Walker – Executive Director, People, Policy, Economy and Public Health, Essex County Council

Dear partner,

I am writing following my letter last month confirming Greater Essex had been accepted onto the Government’s devolution priority programme. I can confirm that the Government has now launched its consultation on Greater Essex devolution. This is a chance for local organisations and residents to have their say on the proposal to form a Mayoral Combined County Authority for Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock.

This is a significant step forward in our journey to realising the benefits that devolution will bring to the area. We have been clear about the positive impact it would have in ensuring decisions around key issues such as transport and housing can be made closer to the people and businesses they affect. The consultation also marks the first point at which residents can have their say in this process and help to inform proposals. We know this is something that is important to the people who live and work in Greater Essex. It will be interesting to see what is shared.

I can confirm that Essex County Council, Southend-on-Sea City Council and Thurrock Council are consultees and will provide formal responses to the Government via the consultation. These are likely to be published on each council’s website. You are welcome to also take part and share through your networks to encourage others. This is an important moment in the county’s history and vital that as many people as possible have their say.

The consultation and additional information is available here: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/greater-essex-devolution/greater-essex-devolution-consultation

You will note, the consultation refers to ‘Mayoral Combined County Authority’ because that is the technical name of the body being created, but it will be the strategic authority for Greater Essex as set out in the white paper.  In Greater Essex the two terms can be used interchangeably.

The consultation closes at 11.59pm on 13 April.

Yours, Tom Walker