Government confirms decision on new unitary councils in Greater Essex

March 26, 2026

Southend-on-Sea City Council has responded to the Government announcement confirming plans to establish five new unitary councils across Greater Essex.

The creation of five local councils, across Essex means that from April 2028, Southend-on-Sea City Council be replaced by a new South East Essex Council.

This will be alongside the other new unitary authorities across Greater Essex, who will have responsibility for delivering all services in one area including waste collections, planning, adult social care, highways, children’s services and more.

The decision follows several months of assessment and engagement across the county and sets out the future structure for how local services will be delivered.

As part of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) - Southend-on-Sea City Council will now begin detailed planning work with Castle Point Borough Council, Rochford District Council, and Essex County Council, to form a new unitary council in South East Essex.

Under the Government’s timetable, the new unitary authorities are not scheduled to go live until April 2028, with shadow elections planned for May 2027.

LGR aims to simplify council structures by creating new, more streamlined local councils that work better, making it easier for residents to access and navigate services.

Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of Southend-on-Sea City Council said: “I am extremely pleased that the Government has recognised that the case for five councils was the only credible way forward for Essex, based on the needs of real communities in Southend, Castle Point and Rochford.

“We are already working closely with colleagues across Greater Essex on shaping how local services are delivered in the future. This next phase of Local Government Reorganisation will see us work with Castle Point Borough Council, Rochford District Council and Essex County Council on a detailed implementation plan to form a new unitary council in South East Essex.

“It is important to recognise that there will be no immediate changes for residents. We know that what matters most to residents are very practical things: will my bins be collected, will potholes be filled, will my local library or school remain open, and will vulnerable residents continue to be supported? The answer to all of these is yes.

“Day-to-day services will continue as normal while planning for the new arrangements progresses. We will continue to keep residents informed as we go through the process and beyond the upcoming local elections.”