Chelmsford city centre could have its own council

The city centre is the last area of Chelmsford left without a parish-tier council – but that could soon change, depending on the results of a consultation that begins today. 

Chelmsford City Council has just launched a Community Governance Review consultation, which asks residents of the city centre: do you want decisions on your very local services to be made far away, or by a parish-tier council just for central Chelmsford? 

In Chelmsford, there are currently three levels of council: Essex County Council, Chelmsford City Council, and the very local tier of parish/town/community councils. Over 60% of Chelmsford district residents are represented at the parish level, but this doesn't include residents in the city centre. Over 51,000 people live in this unparished zone.

Councillor Stephen Robinson, Leader of Chelmsford City Council, said:

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“We want to make sure everyone in Chelmsford has strong, local representation. Central Government is reorganising the city and county levels of local government, which means that in a few years’ time, Chelmsford will cease to exist as an area of local government, unless we make this change.

“This is about ensuring that our city centre continues to have its own voice. Children’s play areas, allotments, playing fields and similar are highly valued. But, without this change, decisions on these very local services could in future be made by councillors from Maldon, Brentwood and Harlow.

“This is a good opportunity to make sure that Chelmsford’s democracy works for everyone at a community level, and we are keen to hear what local people think about creating a brand-new parish/town council for the city centre.”

Cllr Stephen Robinson, Leader of Chelmsford City Council

A parish-tier council is the most common form of community governance, but there are other options. Residents might also decide to support more informal arrangements, such as an area committee, a neighbourhood forum, a residents’ association, a neighbourhood association, or even to join an existing parish close by. The area can also be left unparished.  

Some options might involve redrawing neighbouring parish boundaries, so residents of the areas around the city centre are also invited to take part. This includes Broomfield, Chelmer Village, Chignals, Galleywood, Great Baddow, Margaretting, Springfield, Stock and Writtle.  

If a new council is created, it would have powers similar to other parish and town councils in Chelmsford, and could raise a small additional council tax precept to fund local priorities. 

Take part in the consultation 

The consultation closes on 4 January 2026. If a new parish-tier council is created, its elections will be held in May 2027. To find out more information and have your say, please go to www.chelmsford.gov.uk/cgr2025. 

If the online survey is not accessible for you, you can also write to Chelmsford City Council, Civic Centre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1JE or call 01245 606606.