We have been accepted onto the Government's fast-track Devolution Priority Programme. This is a big step towards devolution for Southend and the wider Essex area.
The Secretary of State has also invited us and other councils in Essex to submit proposals for local government reorganisation.
Devolution means transferring powers and funding from the government to local areas. Reorganisation aims to replace the current two-tier council system with new unitary councils. This makes it simpler.
There are no immediate changes to how we operate, or the services we provide. Our commitment to excellent services remains the same.
Our electoral cycle
Being part of the Devolution Priority Programme does not change our electoral cycle.
We have not asked to postpone any of Southend's planned local elections.
We have an electoral cycle of elections-by-thirds. This is where a third of the councillors are elected every year for 3 years, with no elections in the 4th year. As a result, no local elections were planned for 2025.
Further information
- English Devolution White Paper
- Devolution and local government reorganisation frequently asked questions
- Explainer: devolution and local elections
- Local government structure and elections
- Local authority, combined authority, and county combined authority election cycles in England
- Frequently Asked Questions - Devolution and LGR for Southend