A COUNCIL leader is planning legal action against the Government’s “wrong” plans to scrap 15 Essex councils, after raising concerns about the cost. Kevin Bentley, Conservative leader of Essex County Council, slammed the Labour Government’s announcement for the biggest change to local councils in 50 years.

It will see various areas merged to create West Essex Council, North Essex Council, Mid Essex Council, South West Council and South East Council. Criticising the Government, Mr Bentley said it has chosen the wrong option for the people of Essex.

He added: “Their decision means that, and as the evidence base shows, it will take 50 years for the five proposed councils to pay the bill for this reorganisation. That means our children will be grandparents by the time this is paid down. The justification for their decision is thin.”

Steve Reed, Secretary of State for housing, communities and local government, announced on Wednesday (March 25) there will be five new councils in Essex. He says the changes will help various Essex towns and cities to “thrive.”

Backing the plans, Stephen Robinson Lib Dem leader of Chelmsford City Council, said the change will keep local services and representation as close to residents as possible.

He added: “Done right, this reorganisation could improve how everything works together, so residents receive the best possible services and fewer people fall through the gaps. We will continue to work with all our partners across Essex to prepare for April 2028, to ensure a smooth transition when the new council takes over. In the meantime, Chelmsford City Council will continue to deliver vital services across the district, supporting residents and businesses.”

Currently in Essex there are two systems of local government. There is the two tier system, with district councils and above that the county council – such as Basildon and Essex County Council. Under this system services, such as social care, bin collections and housing, are separated between the two councils. The other system means Southend and Thurrock Councils are unitary authorities which carry out all services.

Under the changes South West Essex Council will cover Basildon and Thurrock, the South East Essex Council will see Castle Point, Rochford and Southend merge, The new North East Essex Council will include Braintree, Colchester and Tendring. Brentwood, Chelmsford and Maldon will be under the Mid Essex Council and the West Essex Council will cover current Epping Forest, Harlow and Uttlesford.