The council's Cabinet will meet on 21 October to consider reaffirming its support for the establishment of a Greater Essex Mayoral Strategic Authority. This move follows a joint letter from the leaders of Essex County Council, Southend-on-Sea City Council, and Thurrock Council, advocating for the progression of devolution.
Subject to parliamentary approval, revised regulations could allow the new strategic authority to be created in early 2027. Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Devolution, highlighted the opportunity, stating, "Devolution is a significant opportunity for Southend and will bring £1.2bn of benefits to Greater Essex over the long term."
Cllr Cowan added that devolution would give the city a stronger voice in decisions concerning transport, skills, housing, and economic growth, while facilitating investment and decision-making closer to affected communities. He emphasised that Southend-on-Sea City Council would retain responsibility for delivering local services to residents, collaborating with partners across Greater Essex on wider-scale issues.
The proposed Greater Essex Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA) would be governed by elected members from Southend-on-Sea City Council, Essex County Council, and Thurrock Council. The MSA would not replace existing local councils, ensuring residents continue to receive day-to-day services from their current providers. Devolution aims to grant Greater Essex additional powers over strategic matters including transport, adult skills, economic growth, and investment, supported by a 30-year investment fund of up to £1.2 billion.
The report under consideration pertains to consent for the MSA's establishment and the submission of revised regulations to Parliament. Any future local government reorganisation proposals are separate from the MSA's creation and will undergo their own decision-making processes. The date for the first mayoral election will be determined by the Secretary of State.
