GMB Union has written to local MPs and councillors in Essex to express concerns about a lack of information surrounding devolution plans. 

The county has been identified for the Devolution Priority Programme, meaning it will become Mayoral Combined County Authority referred to as Greater Essex by May 2026. [1]

While GMB supports the principle of devolution, with local people being more involved in decision making, it has criticised the vague assurances offered by the Government that funding and resources will be sufficient for the expanded responsibilities of the new authority.

The union is also opposed to the introduction of mayors, voicing concerns that this position will be largely unaccountable – providing an opportunity to act irresponsibly with resources. 

Jasmin Deans, GMB Regional Organiser, said:

“It is essential that council workers are put front and centre of this transition.

“Years of austerity have seen our members working increasingly hard to deliver services for residents in Essex.  

“Many are already overworked and experiencing high levels of stress, particularly in frontline roles. 

“We want guarantees that services will be invested in properly, with decision making being in the hands of local people.

“As the representative union for thousands of workers across Essex, GMB looks forward to engaging constructively on these proposals.”