Help shape the future of local democracy in Chelmsford

A review is underway of the most local level of decision-making in Chelmsford and Chelmsford City Council wants to hear your views, as part of what is called a Community Governance Review.

62% of the population across Chelmsford have a parish or town council, as well as Chelmsford City Council and Essex County Council. The other 38% (within the urban centre of the city) do not have that very local voice.

There are two aspects to the review: (a) should the 38% without local representation have a new tier of local government (e.g. community/parish council), an alternative such as area committees, or remain as they are; and (b) are changes needed to existing parishes.

Boundaries of existing local councils may need to change, especially in areas which have seen a great deal of development. For these reasons, the City Council is carrying out public consultation from Monday 18 January to Thursday 18 March. Have your say at www.chelmsford.gov.uk/cgr

An information leaflet and paper survey will also be delivered to every household in January, providing an opportunity for you to complete and return via a freepost address.

Chelmsford City Council will consider the results of the consultation and a report will be put before the Council’s Full Council in July 2021, to decide upon the next stage of the review process.