Local authorities bordering London have met to form a strategic, high-level grouping. This body will allow those councils which surround the capital a regular opportunity and forum to discuss issues of mutual strategic importance, including widening of the M25. Other areas of shared concern arising from their proximity to London include school places, crime and increased powers for the mayor. ‘This group will be a powerful voice for those authorities surrounding London which are all-too-often drowned out by the capital,' said leader of Essex CC, Lord Hanningfield. ‘Additionally, with the mayor of London receiving increased powers over transport, housing and planning, it is important that we have a forum to discuss and be able to respond to the impact these additional powers will have on authorities surrounding London.' Councils involved include Buckinghamshire, Essex, Hertfordshire and Kent CCs.
