This could result in Brentwood joining forces with Chelmsford City Council and Maldon District Council.
The proposal, part of the Government’s Local Government Reorganisation plan, was supported by councillors at an extraordinary council meeting on Monday, September 15.
The reorganisation plan stems from the Government’s Devolution White Paper, which seeks to replace the current ‘two-tier’ system with ‘single-tier’ unitary authorities.
The government invited councils to propose how these all-purpose unitary councils could efficiently provide essential public services across the county.
Brentwood Borough Council said it has been proactive in this process and submitted interim proposals earlier this year.
Four business cases are being developed across Greater Essex, with the five-unitary council model featuring Brentwood, Chelmsford, and Maldon as the council’s preferred option.
The other options include three-unitary, and two models of four-unitary councils, each with varying combinations of districts.
Final plans must be submitted to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government by September 26.
Council leader Barry Aspinell said: “My main focus has always been clear: to ensure Brentwood residents continue to receive the quality services they expect, from a council that listens and remains closely connected to the community, and to whom they are accountable.
“That’s why I believe the five-unitary model is the best option for us as it offers strong local voices, good connections with our towns and villages, and services that are both reliable and financially sustainable.”
He expressed his pleasure that councillors had voted to support the plan.
“I’m confident it gives Brentwood the best chance to safeguard what matters most to our community.”
The government is expected to consult on the proposals later in the year, with final decisions anticipated in 2026.
