The report summarised that a White Paper on English Devolution was released on 16 December 2024 and included wide ranging changes to the framework of local government across England, including devolution of powers and funding from central government to strategic authorities and local government reorganisation. Thurrock had previously worked with neighbouring upper tier authorities to develop proposals for devolution and had indicated an interest in participating in the Devolution Priority Programme. The report summarised the proposals contained in the White Paper including the parameters for devolution and for local government reorganisation. It summarised the ambitious timeframe for areas participating in the Devolution Priority Programme, delivering Mayoral elections for strategic authorities by May 2026 and new unitary authorities in 2027 and 2028. To ensure there was no delay to deliver, the government had indicated it was minded to postpone local elections for areas that were ready to engage in the priority programme. The report sought views and endorsement from the General Services Committee on a paper presented to Cabinet. The Cabinet paper sought approval to express interest in the priority programme and for the Leader of the Council and Chief Executive to request that the Secretary of State postponed the May 2025 elections in Thurrock to enable the Council to focus on developing the new arrangements.

The following points were made by committee members:

Councillor Muldowney

·       In favour of moving forward and committing to the priority programme.

·       Lots of concerns and uncertainties.

·       Awaiting more details.

·       Supported devolution with local government reorganisation taking place alongside this to achieve outcomes.

·       Enormous job and challenge.

·       Finance point of view could be an opportunity for Thurrock to be joined by other district councils.

·       Agreed lots of details and discussions to take place with government and other councils.

Councillor Speight

·       Referenced points made in his statement which had been tabled and can be viewed from the following link:

(Public Pack)Statement by Cllr N Speight Agenda Supplement for General Services Committee, 07/01/2025 17:00

·       Concluded the majority of the group within the Non-Political Alliance of Independent Councillors by a majority of 6 to 1 in support of going

to government and that communication was key.

Councillor Johnson

·       Not against the priority programme and devolution.

·       Cancelling elections goes against democracy.

·       Acknowledged the expense of holding an election.

·       Communication were key.

·       Surprised if ready by 2026 and concerned this could take much longer.

Councillor Worrall

·       Understood and appreciated the concerns of residents and members.

·       Huge agenda for Thurrock.

·       Decision required to get 100% right as it would shape Thurrock as a place for everyone.

·       Welcomed the bold move by the new government.

·       Devolution would give councils and communities more say in decisions that affect their lives.

·       Work at pace was required to ensure a solid proposal be submitted in September.

·       Vital to have this submitted on time to ensure the best deal for residents.

·       Acknowledged the expenses of an election.

·       Through devolution there would be an opportunity to shape the local infrastructure and transport schemes in Thurrock, the two areas  ...  view the full minutes text for item 12.