As part of the
Starmer ministry local government reform, a goal of "simpler local government structures" was set out by the government, including a commitment to
phase out two-tier local government structures. North East Essex Council was announced in March 2026 as the replacement for
Braintree District Council,
Colchester City Council,
Tendring District Council and
Essex County Council in Braintree, Colchester and Tendring, an area that will form the
North East Essex local government district. The council will be a constituent member of the
Greater Essex Combined Authority, which is also being established ahead of the
2028 Greater Essex mayoral election. == Notes ==