"The five unitary model creates sensible geographies that will empower each new council to deliver new housing in line with local needs."
"The proposal for five councils had most cross-party and cross-council support, particularly from Labour, Liberal Democrats and the Greens."
"Analysis by accountancy firm Grant Thornton suggested a five-unitary model would bring in a 35m net benefit by 2032-33."
"Southend-on-Sea City Council leader Daniel Cowan stated that his team could draw on almost thirty years of experience as a unitary authority."
The government will replace the current 15 councils in Essex with five unitary authorities by 2028, impacting 1.9 million residents. Communities Secretary Steve Reed emphasized that this model reflects local identities and will empower councils to address housing needs and public service delivery. The five-council structure received broad support across political parties and is expected to yield a £35 million net benefit by 2032-33. This reform marks the most significant change in Essex's local government since 1974.
Read at www.bbc.com
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