Dear Editor,

Devolution in Essex: Another sign that our democracy is being eroded.

From 17 February until 13 April the Government carried out a consultation exercise about the future governance of Greater Essex which includes the creation of a Mayor for the County.

Despite it’s attempts to advertise this consultation, just 4070 responses were received of which the vast majority, 3958 were from members of the public.

The results of this consultation have now been published, but despite the huge majority disagreeing with the proposals, the Government are pressing ahead with legislation which will see a new Authority created in 2027/2028.

The questionnaire asked seven questions which can be summarised as follows

Will changes deliver benefits to the area? 71% disagreed.
Agree or disagree to changes in governance? 71% disagreed.
Will changes support economy in the area? 67% disagreed,
Will changes improve social outcomes? 69% disagreed.
Will changes improve local government services? 70% disagreed.
Will the changes improve local natural environment? 66% disagreed.
Will changes support the interests and needs
of local communities and reflect local identities? 75% disagreed.

Put quite simply, Councillors across Essex have sided with the Government in proceeding with changes in how we are governed without any mandate from those who they are supposed to represent.

We now hear that Essex County Council favour the three Unitary Council model for Essex, which would see Harlow submerged in a Central Essex Unitary Authority stretching from Harlow in the west to Maldon in the east with Chelmsford in the middle.

Just how that arrangement retains local identity, is based on economic and travel corridors, let alone financial sustainability is beyond comprehension.

Nicholas Taylor
Leader of Harlow Alliance