“Nothing should be off the table” in devolution talks, the leader of Essex County Council has claimed.

The process, which could see central government powers transferred to regional authorities, should go even further and shift countywide responsibilities to a local level, said councillor David Finch.

Epping Forest District Council is one of 15 councils across Essex that has written to central government, committing to talks about how powers could be transferred.

Cllr. Finch said: “We know that with our local knowledge we can make better decisions on key principles than central government.

“However, at the same time we should also explore where we can go further as ultimately local people know what is best for them.”

He added: “We already have good examples within Essex such as the Community Initiatives Fund which provides grants for local projects, and the Local Highways Panels which see parish and town councils involved in strategic highway decision making.

“But we can and should be going further.

“It is an opportunity to think boldly and broadly and nothing should be off the table.”

Speaking at a meeting on Tuesday evening (September 29), district council leader Chris Whitbread said he had serious concerns about devolution after a chance for economic development funding was withdrawn.

He said: “I was the 15th most reluctant signatory of that letter, I have profound concerns.

“There will be a report coming to cabinet for members to debate.”

He added: “There is certainly no commitment on our part apart from signing a letter saying we will keep talking.”