HARLOW Conservative councillors have expressed concerns that any local government re-organisation could see them saddled with debts from other councils.

Many expect that Harlow will unify with Epping Forest and Uttlesford in what is called a unitary authority, however, these are early days.

An outside bet is that Thurrock could also merge as part of a western authority.

Needless to say, any mention of Thurrock and politicians express concerns over the £1.5 billion debt they accrued over some rather unfortunate investments.

Film of the agenda item is below.

ANNEX B: Government’s current position on the treatment of Thurrock

Council’s debt

The Government accepts that Thurrock Council holds significant unsupported debt that cannot be managed locally in its entirety.

The Government is committed to providing an initial tranche of financial support for debt repayment for Thurrock Council in 2026-27, ahead of the implementation of reorganisation in Greater Essex.

The Government would need to consider the terms of any financial support for debt repayment in relation to assurance over the Council’s financial position, the Council’s continued commitment to reduce the debt locally within their

capacity, overall Value for Money for the local and national taxpayer, and how any financial support could be implemented in the context of specific reorganisation proposals from Greater Essex.

As per the guidance accompanying the statutory invitation, proposals should ensure that criterion (2f)1 is fully considered.

=======

The most recent report on Thurrock Council’s progress is below. The leader of Thurrock Council is councillor Lynn Worrall.