Maldon District Council responds to Essex devolution consultation, asking for fair representation of the authority.

In December 2024, the government published the English Devolution White Paper. This sets out plans to move power out of Westminster and back to local communities, ensuring that every part of England is covered by devolution.

Local council leaders from Essex County Council, Thurrock Council and Southend-on-Sea City Council have since written to government expressing their interest in taking forward devolution for Essex through the establishment of a Mayoral Combined County Authority, with the election for a mayor taking place in May 2026.

A consultation led by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) sought views on a proposal to form a Mayoral Combined County Authority for the local government areas of Essex County Council, Thurrock Council and Southend-on-Sea City Council.

Maldon District Council has prepared a response, this was considered, discussed and approved at Council last night (April 3). The response will be submitted to MHCLG before the deadline of the April 13.

Leader of Maldon District Council, Cllr Richard Siddall, said: "As a district council, our response states that the proposed voting members of the Mayoral Combined County Authority, must be balanced more fairly across the county. District councils need to have a voice in stating where the funding and investment is required and in developing the strategies that will shape Essex.

"Mayoral Devolution if it is done well, can  offer an opportunity to unlock funding and deliver infrastructure and services where they are needed the most. 

"Maldon District Council is concerned it will lose the ability to voice the needs of the district and its community, especially with the total lack of representation from across the north of the district Maldon District Council supports the inception of a locality board, these would ensure the needs of the district are prioritised and will provide the means to gain access to the devolved powers and resources. Ensuring that MCCA across the county, recognises specific local needs."