HARLOW Council has agreed to support a proposal that would reshape how local government operates across Essex – not because it endorses the wider reorganisation, but because it is determined to put Harlow first and secure the best possible outcome for the town.

The proposal, ‘Creating a Local Future for Greater Essex’, sets out plans to replace the current two-tier system of county and district councils with five new unitary authorities, each responsible for delivering all local services in their area. A report on the plan will be considered by Cabinet next Thursday (11 September). Under the proposed structure, Harlow would be at the centre of a new unitary West Essex Council. This grouping reflects existing economic, transport, and community connections between the three areas.

Harlow Council is clear that it has serious reservations about the reorganisation itself. The process is being driven forward by central government at pace, without sufficient planning, modelling, or evidence to support its effectiveness. The council does not believe the proposed changes represent a well-thought-out solution to the challenges facing local government. However, with reorganisation likely to proceed, Harlow Council is focused on ensuring the town is not disadvantaged and instead emerges in a position of strength and influence.

The proposal aims to:

• Simplify local government by replacing 15 councils with five
• Support growth and investment by aligning councils with real communities and economic areas

The plan has been shaped by public consultation, with over 7,000 residents across Essex contributing their views. It has also received support from local leaders, businesses, and public services.

Councillor Dan Swords, Leader of Harlow Council, said:

“This is about putting Harlow first. We are in the midst of delivering on our plan to build Harlow’s future, a plan that we fully intend to see through alongside preparing for local government reorganisation.

“We are clear that the wider reorganisation is not without its flaws and we don’t fully endorse it; but, if it goes ahead, we must ensure Harlow is in the strongest possible position.

“This proposal gives us a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a council that reflects our town’s identity, growth, and ambition. Harlow is growing fast – new homes, new jobs, new innovation – and we need a council structure which matches that energy.

“We believe West Essex Council will do just that: rooted in our community, focused on our future, and ready to deliver for our residents.”

Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Local Government Reorganisation and Devolution, Councillor Michael Hardware, added:

“The biggest reorganisation of local government for 50 years is being forced on us by the government. Although the existing two-tier system, with Essex County Council and Harlow Council, is far from perfect and needs reform, this reorganisation is being rushed by government without proper planning or modelling.

“It has left councils to come up with suggested configurations of new unitary councils with only broad guidance. It is clear from the evidence which has come forward from various reliable sources that there is no correlation between the size of unitary councils and success. But our main concern, if we have to accept this reform, is what is best for Harlow. We have opted for the five-unitary configuration with us joining Epping and Uttlesford to form a West Essex unitary council.

“Harlow would be the largest urban area in West Essex and the economic powerhouse with the massive growth and regeneration now beginning to come into play across the town. West Essex would also remain at the heart of the UK Innovation Corridor, which runs from London to Cambridge, another area of growth and innovation not just for the east but the whole country.

“The five-unitary configuration offers Harlow the opportunity to thrive within West Essex and will assist this council to continue delivering the transformation of the town.”

The proposal will be submitted to the Government by 26 September 2025. If approved, elections to the new councils could take place in 2027, with the new system fully in place by 2028.