In light of these changes, Tendring Council's leader, Mark Stephenson, has expressed general support for the establishment of a Greater Essex authority, especially following the announcement that the Essex County Council elections scheduled for May 2025 will be postponed.

Stephenson emphasized the need for Tendring to have a strong voice in the devolution process, expressing optimism that these changes could bring more powers and funding closer to local residents.

To ensure Tendring's interests are represented, Stephenson and the chief executive have been mandated by the Tendring District Council to advocate vigorously in ongoing negotiations.

He also highlighted the importance of collaborating with neighboring councils, particularly Braintree and Colchester, to gather evidence for proposed changes and maximize benefits for Tendring.

The Government has included Essex County Council, Southend City Council, and Thurrock Council in its 'Devolution Priority Programme', which aims to facilitate this reorganization of local government.

A recent constructive meeting with Braintree and Colchester councils reaffirmed their commitment to work together, leveraging their shared geography and successful past collaborations.

The government has proposed a significant reorganization of local governance in Essex, aiming to replace the existing 15 councils with all-purpose 'unitary' authorities responsible for local services.