Harlow Council is calling for residents to take part in the Government’s consultation on the future of local government in Essex.
This consultation centres around a proposed major reorganisation of councils in the county and the country as a whole.
The Government’s plan involves scrapping the current two-tier system of county and district councils, replacing it with new unitary authorities that would handle all local services.
One of the options under consideration in this reorganisation is the “five-unitary” model.
This would place Harlow at the centre of a new West Essex unitary council, alongside Epping Forest and Uttlesford.
The council believes this option, named ‘Creating a Local Future for Greater Essex’, is the best way to ensure Harlow remains at the heart of local decision-making.
However, the council cautions that the wider reorganisation is being rushed forward by central government without proper planning, modelling, or evidence.
But with reform likely to go ahead, Harlow Council says its primary concern is to safeguard the town’s interests and ensure it is in the best possible position.
Under the proposed new structure, Harlow would become the largest urban centre within West Essex and a key player in driving economic growth.
Councillor Michael Hardware, who is responsible for local government reorganisation and devolution, said: “The Government is forcing through the biggest reorganisation of local government in 50 years.
“While reform is needed, the pace and lack of detailed modelling is a concern.
“Despite this, we must ensure Harlow’s interests are protected.
“The five-unitary option – creating a West Essex council with Harlow as the centre – is the model that keeps decisions rooted closest to Harlow’s communities.
“Harlow would form the economic engine of West Essex, strengthening our ability to deliver growth, regeneration, and investment.”
The Government’s consultation is now underway on all four options for reorganisation in Essex, with a decision set to be made in spring 2026.
Shadow elections for the new authority are set to be held in May 2027, with the new authorities coming into effect from May 2028.
Visit https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/essex-southend-on-sea-and-thurrock-local-government-reorganisation to take part in the consultation.
Go to www.essexlgrhub.org/stronger-greater-essex to see business cases for each model.
