Greater Essex set to get new mayor after local leaders approve plans for combined authority
Essex County Council, Southend-on-Sea City Council and Thurrock Council will now be one combined authority
Greater Essex is set for significant changes after plans to create a Mayoral Combined County Authority (MCCA) were approved.
The decision will bring new powers and investment to the region, giving leaders more control over the economy, transport, housing, skills and infrastructure.
New funding agreed includes a multi-million pound 30-year Mayoral investment fund.
This will support major projects across Greater Essex aimed at creating jobs, boosting skills, building homes and improving travel.
At a meeting on Thursday, Councillor Kevin Bentley, Leader of Essex County Council, said the Cabinet’s vote marked “an historic moment for Greater Essex”.
“This isn’t just any vote; this is very historic. You are about to create something brand new for this county that will last for decades, if not longer than that.
“I feel very excited about the prospect of what can be achieved in this county, and you are about to make that happen,” Councillor Bentley said.
The decision was backed by councillors from all parties, with support from Southend-on-Sea City Council and Thurrock Council, who completed their governance processes earlier this year.
The MCCA would cover the areas of Essex County Council, Southend-on-Sea City Council and Thurrock Council.
A further decision in Parliament is expected before the new authority is formally established.
The Mayoral Combined County Authority for Greater Essex is set to be launched early next year, with the first mayoral election planned for May 2026.