This week has seen another change at the top of national politics, with the appointment of a new Prime Minister – the seventh in the last decade. While events in Westminster can sometimes feel a long way from everyday life in Thurrock, the decisions made by Government have a direct impact on our communities, our economy and the services residents rely on.
One issue that remains high on the agenda is Local Government Reorganisation. As things currently stand, Thurrock Council will become part of a new South West Essex Council in 2028, bringing together Thurrock, Basildon and services currently delivered by Essex County Council.
Thurrock Council is in a strong position to help lead the creation of this new council and continue driving growth and progress in our borough. Too often, when people talk about Thurrock Council, they focus on the poor investment decisions made several years ago. What receives far less attention is the quality of the services we deliver today. Our Children's Services are rated Outstanding, our Adult Social Care services are rated Good, and our staff work incredibly hard every day to support residents across the borough.
What makes Thurrock different is our experience. For almost three decades, we have delivered the full range of local government services ourselves. Basildon Borough Council and Essex County Council each provide important services and do so well, but those services are divided between two separate organisations. Because we already run all our services under one roof, we understand what works and what residents expect. That's experience we will bring to the table as the new council is designed.
My priority remains the same: making sure Thurrock residents receive excellent services and the best possible outcomes. I will continue to make sure our residents' interests come first.
Since being elected, I have had some positive conversations with a neighbouring authority that has many similarities to Thurrock – Havering Council. Although Havering is an outer London borough, we share many of the same opportunities. Residents from both our boroughs enjoy the many benefits of living close to one of the world’s best cities, whether that’s commuting there for work, or enjoying its many cultural riches, such as museums, theatres and restaurants.
I'm interested in working with anyone who can help us bring more investment, better transport and more opportunities to Thurrock. Whether it is making the case for infrastructure improvements, ensuring the opportunities created by the Freeport deliver for local communities, or attracting new jobs and investment into our area, working together can help us achieve more than any council can deliver alone.
Backing businesses and growing our economy remains one of my top priorities. This week, I was delighted to host our first Small Business Panel, bringing together more than 30 local businesses from across the borough. The discussion was open, honest and constructive, covering issues ranging from congestion and investment to skills, sporting facilities and future growth.
One of the commitments I made as Leader was that the council would do things differently. That means listening more, engaging earlier and working alongside businesses and communities rather than simply talking to them. The Small Business Panel is exactly the kind of practical partnership we need if we are serious about unlocking Thurrock's full potential. These meetings will be held every quarter so that local businesses can continue to help shape our priorities and identify opportunities for growth across the borough.
For me, it all comes back to one thing: making Thurrock a place people are proud of. Residents deserve clean and attractive neighbourhoods, strong public services and an economy that creates opportunity for everyone.
Finally, with schools now breaking up for the summer holidays, I would like to wish all local families a safe and enjoyable summer. There are plenty of events taking place across the borough over the coming weeks, including Big Lunches that bring communities together and celebrate everything that is great about Thurrock. I encourage residents to get involved where they can.
Thurrock has enormous strengths, and I remain optimistic about what we can achieve together. By backing ambition, supporting enterprise and always putting residents first, we can continue building a borough that people are proud to call home.
Best wishes,
Cllr Richard Bingley, Leader of Thurrock Council