Maldon District Council leader's warning as Essex devolution deadline looms

'Must be balanced fairly' - Maldon District Council leader Richard Siddall has highlighted concerns. (Credit: Ben Shahrabi and archive)

There are just days left for residents and businesses in the Maldon District and across Essex to weigh in on a major shift in how local decisions could be made.

The Government’s public consultation on the proposed Greater Essex Mayoral Combined County Authority (MCCA) will close this Sunday, April 13.

The plans, if approved, could see a directly elected mayor take charge of key regional powers from 2026, overseeing areas such as transport, housing, education, healthcare, and economic development.

Essex County Council has thrown its support behind the proposal, describing it as a landmark opportunity for local governance.

Council Leader Councillor Kevin Bentley called the move “a huge opportunity to shift power out of central government and into the hands of residents.”

Cllr Bentley said: “At the heart of it is the process of transferring powers, responsibilities and funding from the national government to local or regional government.

“It means decision-making about these areas can be made closer to the people, communities and businesses they affect.”

County leaders believe the MCCA could lead to better infrastructure, more efficient services, stronger public health outcomes, and improved transport connectivity.

But not all local authorities are on board. Some, particularly at the district level, are voicing concerns over representation and balance of power.

Councillor Richard Siddall, Leader of Maldon District Council, warned that smaller districts risk being left behind under the proposed structure.

Cllr 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."

Maldon District Council also highlighted concerns about a lack of representation from northern parts of the district and expressed support for the creation of locality boards.

Cllr Siddall added: “These would ensure the needs of the district are prioritised and will provide the means to gain access to the devolved powers and resources.”

To respond before the April 13 deadline, visit: www.gov.uk/greater-essex-devolution