ESSEX is building bridges across the Atlantic thanks to a growing partnership with a council in the United States.
Essex County Council is working with Virginia Beach to create new opportunities in energy, tourism, and security, building on a growing collaboration which began last year.
In 2024, Essex joined Suffolk and Norfolk County Councils in signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Virginia Beach.
The relationship has developed steadily since then, with a delegation from Virginia Beach visiting County Hall last week.
Louise McKinlay, deputy leader of Essex County Council and councillor responsible for economic growth, said: "It was a real pleasure to welcome our partners from Virginia Beach to Essex and continue building on the strong foundations of our transatlantic partnership.
"Our regions share a proud history, and we’re now working together to shape a bold future – one that delivers real economic benefits for our communities."
During the visit, discussions focused on strengthening collaboration in areas such as energy security and the visitor economy.
To commemorate the occasion, Councillor McKinlay presented the delegation with a framed copy of a historic 1594 map of Essex, drawn by John Norden and held by the Essex Record Office.
The map dates back to the period when ships first sailed from Harwich to Jamestown, highlighting the longstanding connections between the two regions.
The Virginia Beach delegation has also been invited to a private tour of the Essex Record Office to explore more of this shared history.
Later in the week, Councillor McKinlay attended a reception hosted by the State of Virginia in London, where she engaged with global security organisations and businesses to promote Essex as a prime destination for investment.
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She said: "Security is a key sector for both Essex and Virginia Beach, and our collaboration is already opening doors to new jobs and new investment.
"This partnership is just the beginning of a journey that promises to bring fresh ideas, shared prosperity, and lasting connections between Essex and the State of Virginia."
The ongoing partnership aims to translate historical ties into future economic growth and innovation.
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