Government Confirms Decision on New Unitary Councils in Greater Essex

25 March 2026

Government confirms decision on new unitary councils in Greater Essex

The government has today (25 March) announced its decision to progress the creation of five new unitary councils across Greater Essex. This means that, from April 2028, Uttlesford District Council, along with Epping Forest District Council, Harlow Council and Essex County Council, will form a new ‘West Essex’ council.

The five new unitary authorities will replace the current 15 councils across Greater Essex, and they will have responsibility for providing all services in one area including waste collections, planning, adult social care, highways, children’s services and more.

Town and parish councils are not included in local government reorganisation and their services remain unaffected.

What is the next step?

Under the government’s timetable, the new unitary authorities are scheduled to go live from 1 April 2028, with shadow elections planned for May 2027.

The shared priority of all 15 councils is to ensure the smoothest possible transition, with minimal disruption to residents, partners and businesses. There will be many questions, and the council will work to provide clear information over the coming weeks and months as the government develops an implementation plan.

Cllr Petrina Lees, Leader of the council, said: “We are pleased with the government’s decision and welcome the clarity it provides. From the outset we have supported the five-council model, recognising it as large enough to secure meaningful efficiencies while remaining closely connected to the identities and priorities of our local communities.

“Over the past year we have built constructive partnerships with the other councils across Essex and have worked collaboratively in preparation for a range of outcomes, so we are well positioned to move forward with confidence.

“Our focus now is to ensure a smooth transition that safeguards local services and makes the most of the opportunities that reorganisation will create. Residents can be assured that we will continue to provide high‑quality services right up until Uttlesford District Council becomes part of the new unitary authority in April 2028.”

For more information, visit the Great Essex Local Government Reorganisation hub: www.essexlgrhub.org