AN online consultation event about planned local government reorganisation organised by Thurrock Council, which reported public engagement at it as 'lively and thoughtful', involved less than 20 residents, some of who were councillors and staff.

Nub News recently reported on the local council's preferred option, of a partnership with Brentwood, Epping and Harlow councils to form a new unitary authority.

An online presentation and subsequent Q&A discussion took place on Wednesday (6 August), when interested parties were invited to join a webinar to learn more about the changes that are happening to councils in Greater Essex.

However, the take-up was low but the council is hopeful more people will respond before the deadline.

Its planned actions to stimulate more response include:

• An online survey. Have Your Say on Local Government Reorganisation. It closes on Wednesday, 27 August 2025."
• An in-person event planned at the Thameside on Tuesday, 19 August at 7pm: Public Question Time Event Tickets, Tue 19 Aug 2025 at 19:00 | Eventbrite
• Cabinet members and officers going out to existing events to chat to local people (eg Big Lunches, libraries, village halls etc)