RESIDENTS and businesses are being encouraged to share their views on the priorities for Essex County Council’s 2026/27 budget.

Next year, the council will spend over £2 billion. This will include funding for essential services and investment in our county’s infrastructure and future growth.

The council is asking for views on the key issues facing Essex. Responses to the consultation will help shape services and plan for the future.

The budget consultation survey can be completed online and closes on Monday 15 December.

Across the country, households and businesses are feeling financial pressures. Alongside this, the financial outlook for Essex County Council, and for local authorities in general, is highly uncertain.

While the council has a strong track record of financial management, securing £192 million in savings over the past five years, it is not immune from financial pressures.

These financial pressures are increasing because:

there are increasingly complex demands on our services as well as more people needing our support each year
the costs of providing services have increased – partly due to inflation, and partly as a result of changes in the law
The council faces the impacts of the economic climate such as high inflation and high interest rates, as well as the cost of living situation, while waiting for the outcome of the government’s Fair Funding review, and a multi-year funding settlement.

The survey asks residents and businesses their thoughts on:

the big issues we face and the challenges that lie ahead for Essex.
the things that concern you and your family
where we should focus resources as we work to improve lives across our county
Councillor Chris Whitbread, the Chancellor of Essex, said: “While there is no doubt we are facing budget pressures, I am pleased to say that Essex County Council remains in a strong and stable place.

“It’s no secret that local government finances are under pressure nationwide. But here in Essex, our careful planning and disciplined approach are paying off.

“However, we must continue to look to do things differently and build upon our strong record of financial management to continue to secure better value for money for Essex taxpayers.

“We want residents and businesses to help us shape how we respond to the pressures we are facing, and I would urge them to take part in our consultation.”

Currently Greater Essex is also in the process of establishing a Mayoral Combined County Authority (MCCA). This will result in a directly elected Mayor from May 2026.

The Mayor will pick up some responsibilities from Essex County Council. Any related feedback from the survey will be used in planning for the MCCA.

Take part in the consultation at: https://consultations.essex.gov.uk/rci/ecc-budget-consultation-2026-27/.