Southend Political Leaders reaffirm collective support for five-unitary model in response to Local Government Reorganisation consultation

January 8, 2026

Political Group Leaders at Southend-on-Sea City Council have jointly written to government in response to the statutory consultation on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) for Greater Essex, reaffirming their collective support for a five-unitary authority (5UA) model.

The cross-party letter sets out why a five-unitary model is considered the best option to protect local identity, strengthen democratic accountability, deliver sustainable public services and support long-term financial stability.

In their submission to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, the Group Leaders highlight that the five-unitary proposal:

Reflects coherent urban, coastal and rural communities across Greater Essex

Is based on independent evidence on financial sustainability and service delivery

Creates councils of a manageable size, better able to withstand financial pressures

Protects democratic representation and community engagement

Aligns with devolution plans, including the incoming Mayoral Strategic Authority

The letter also raises shared concerns about alternative proposals involving three or four unitary authorities, warning that fewer, larger councils would reduce democratic representation, weaken local accountability and increase transition and delivery risks.

Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of Southend-on-Sea City Council, said: “This is the most significant change to local government in a generation, and we have a responsibility to ensure the outcome works for our residents and communities.

“Across political groups, we are united in our view that a five-unitary authority model strikes the right balance between strong local identity, democratic accountability, service quality and financial sustainability. Bigger is not always better, and locally rooted councils matter.

“I would strongly encourage residents, businesses and community organisations to take part in the consultation before it closes, so their views can be considered directly by government.”

Have your say – consultation closing soon

The government consultation on Local Government Reorganisation in Greater Essex closes on Sunday 11 January 2026.

Residents, businesses, voluntary and community groups and anyone with an interest in the future of local government are encouraged to take part.