BASILDON and Thurrock and should be merged to create a large, more powerful council as part of radical reforms, "accelerating housing and infrastructure" building for more than 16,755 new homes, says Basildon's Labour leader.

Cllr Gavin Callaghan has spoken up about government plans for devolution in Essex that would see the creation of a number of new authorities.

Under Cllr Callahan's "preferred option," Basildon and Thurrock Councils would be merged, Castle Point, Rochford, and Southend Councils would join together, Chelmsford, Maldon, and Brentwood would be under one council, and Braintree, Colchester, and Tendering would become one authority. 

The Basildon Council leader says merging the councils in south Essex will help "unlock" 5,255 homes in south Essex and Basildon's 11,500 "potential homes" through partnership with housing associations and Homes England.

He wants to see more details about the devolution announced in March, which is set to see more powers handed over from central government to councils, the restructuring of councils signed in December, and elections for the larger councils in May 2027.

Cllr Callaghan has long demanded that Basildon be separated from Essex County Council – in a move called "Bas-Exit" from Basildon councillors. Basildon Council is calling for a joint agreement with Thurrock to form a new South West Essex Unitary Authority.

Currently, in Essex, there are two council structures: the two-tier system with county and borough councils, such as Basildon, Castle Point, and Rochford, which are then under Essex County Council.

In these areas, services such as housing, social care, bin collection, and education are split between the council and borough councils. There are also unitary councils, such as Southend and Thurrock Councils, that run and offer all services independently from any county council.

A booklet from Basildon Council states that its preferred option "ensures equitable resource distribution and focuses regional governance, addressing local issues effectively.

It says it balances powers while facilitating better coordination and strategic planning and Basildon's approach fosters fairer representation and balanced development, promoting a cohesive and prosperous future for all of Essex.