ESSEX residents could be offered a “Who Wants to be a Millionaire” 50/50 council option. Currently, there are four formal business cases being worked on across Greater Essex, which propose splitting the county into either three unitary councils, five unitary councils or four unitary councils – of which there are two options reports the Local Democracy Reporter.
The county council has previously confirmed it believes a three unitary model – one each based in north, mid and south Essex – is the best structure and configuration for Greater Essex. These three councils would replace the existing 15 councils and two-tier structure.
It says the three unitary model will best balance how to reflect existing communities while providing the most economic benefits from scale and efficiency. Those backing the case for five new councils – including Chelmsford City Council and Brentwood Borough Council, say there is strong evidence that unitaries of this size deliver much better outcomes than bigger ones in areas like social care, especially as a result of being able to access local markets.
Chelmsford city and Essex county councillor Mike Steel said at a meeting on September 10: “I have seen both cases this one and the county council one. Both are compelling cases. Both are supported by independent consultants. Both are compelling. But coming to the opposite conclusion.”
It is likely all four options will go to the government and the government will decide whether to consult on one or all of them. He added: “ I feel like a contestant on Who Wants to be a Millionaire where you do the 50/50 and two options come at you and you have to decide.
“I would be surprised if we don’t end up in that position – where two options go back to the public and the public will have to give their view.”
The final plans are required to be submitted to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government by September 26, 2025. The Government is expected to consult on the proposals later in the year, with final decisions anticipated in 2026.
