HARLOW Labour Leader Cllr James Griggs has welcomed the Governments decision to create five unitary authorities for Essex. This will see Harlow merge with Uttlesford and Epping Forest in May 2028.

Cllr Griggs said: “This is absolutely the right decision for Essex and for Harlow. This is the model that Essex Labour leaders have sought from the outset, it makes sense geographically and recognises the existing links between neighbouring communities.

The Conservative plan to link us with Maldon at the opposite end of the county was bonkers!

I have been lobbying ministers since November 2024 to adopt this model and I’m delighted they have listened.

The M11 corridor is a key strategic area which will benefit from serious investment and economic growth thanks to this historic decision.

Few residents will shed a tear at the  abolition of Essex County Council, it has consistently failed to deliver for Harlow not least in its responsibility to fill potholes.

A new combined West Essex authority will be big enough to deliver its increased responsibilities but small enough to remain in touch with its residents.

Across the county we will reduce from 15 councils to 5.

Abolishing the two tier system will save taxpayers hundreds of thousands of pounds which can be reinvested in providing better services. 

A unitary authority will end the confusion of having to work out which council is responsible for which service. Highways, bin collections, housing, street lighting, environment, etc will all be under one roof.

After years of Tory neglect, Harlow has already begun to benefit from significant investment by the Labour Government, I expect  this to continue in the run up to the changes in 2028 and beyond.”

Harlow MP Chris Vince added ” I am pleased the option of five has been selected. It was the only plan on the table that made any sense for Harlow, rightly putting it at the heart of a new unitary authority in West Essex.

“It will ensure residents in Harlow remain at the centre of decision making.”