The Council of Essex Council met on Thursday, 27 June 2024, to discuss the future size of the council as part of the electoral review by the Local Government Boundary Commission. The council decided to recommend maintaining the current number of 51 councillors, despite some opposition and concerns about the consultation process.

Election Reviewer Council Size Submission

The primary topic of discussion was the council's submission to the Local Government Boundary Commission regarding the future size of the council. Councillor Gilbert presented the proposal to maintain the current number of 51 councillors. He argued that this number, while slightly below the average for similar authorities, is appropriate given the council's size and type. Councillor Cowan seconded the proposal, emphasizing the importance of expediency and noting that there would be further opportunities to make individual or group submissions during the second stage of the review.

Councillor Collins supported the proposal, highlighting the challenges within the council's boundaries and the appropriateness of the current number of councillors for the city's population. He noted that maintaining 51 councillors would likely result in 17 wards, with three councillors per ward.

Councillor Cox, however, criticized the consultation process, claiming it was predetermined and poorly communicated, resulting in only three responses from members. He expressed his group's inability to support the paper due to these issues.

Councillor Neven raised concerns about under-registration of households, particularly those divided into flats and HMOs, which may lead to underrepresentation in population figures. He also noted that the consultation period coincided with local elections, potentially affecting responses.

Councillor Dent supported the proposal, stating that the current number of councillors is adequate and helps manage the considerable casework burden. He saw no need to increase or decrease the number of councillors.

Councillor Gilbert, in his summation, defended the engagement process, listing multiple communications and opportunities for councillors to contribute. He acknowledged the limited engagement but attributed it to the pressures faced during the consultation period.

The proposal to maintain 51 councillors was put to a vote and passed with 27 votes in favour and 17 against. The decision will be noted in the submission to the Local Government Boundary Commission.

For more details, you can refer to the Public reports pack 27th-Jun-2024 18.30 The Council and the Appendix - Council Size Template.