Some of the biggest debates and decisions at councils across Essex could now be held virtually rather than in public due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Government has written to councils to advise them they can hold meetings remotely rather than in council buildings until May 7, 2021.
It is likely that this will mean meetings will be held over online web streams or using virtual meeting software.
In the letter sent to councils, Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick said: “The regulations on meetings will enable essential decision-making to continue whilst upholding democratic principles and enabling all to comply with the public health guidance.”
After being forced to cancel meetings as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, Southend Council has already had to make a major decision on the future of the Southend United stadium behind closed doors.
A meeting that would usually have been held in the council building and been open to public scrutiny was held with just the leaders of the four political parties who were each asked to sign off on the decision.
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