Understanding the Proposal: A Single Unitary Authority for Kent and Medway
Kent County Council (KCC) has officially submitted a proposal to the UK Government to create a single unitary authority known as the “Kent Council,” which would replace the current system of two-tier local government consisting of the county council and multiple district and borough councils. This change aims to simplify governance, improve public services, and provide a more consistent experience across Kent and Medway.
A unitary authority means that one council will be responsible for all local government functions, including social care, education, libraries, transport, and more. This replaces the existing arrangement where responsibilities are split between county and district councils, which can sometimes cause confusion and inefficiency.
This submission by KCC fits within the UK Government’s broader drive to reorganise local government in parts of England to simplify decision-making and reduce costs.
Reflecting on the proposal, Councillor Linden Kemkaran, Leader of KCC, said: “The creation of a single Kent Council will help us deliver better services for residents by bringing together resources and expertise under one roof. It is an important step in making local government more straightforward and effective for everyone.”
The “Kent Council” Model: Structure and Operation
While establishing one overarching council, KCC plans to maintain local presence through three Area Assemblies representing North Kent, East Kent, and West Kent. These assemblies are intended to keep decision-making close to communities and ensure that local views continue to shape services such as community libraries, family hubs, and transport infrastructure.
This approach aims to balance streamlined governance at the county level with locally driven involvement in everyday community services.
KCC’s Argument: Why One Council is the Right Path for Kent
Financial Stability and Long-Term Savings
KCC highlights that the proposal can deliver significant financial benefits. The council estimates annual savings of approximately £15 million once fully established, with an initial transition cost of around £20 million. These costs are expected to be recovered within two years, with cumulative savings potentially reaching over £100 million across the first decade.
Such savings would support sustainable funding for vital services amid ongoing financial pressures.
Protecting and Strengthening Public Services
A single unitary council can maintain county-wide consistency in delivering critical services including social care, services for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), libraries, and family support hubs. KCC argues this avoids risks of fragmentation or uneven service quality that might arise with multiple smaller councils.
Fairness and Consistency for All Residents
One council could bring a unified council tax rate across Kent and Medway, ensuring residents receive comparable standards of service regardless of their location. This consistency is proposed to help reduce confusion and promote equity.
A Stronger Voice for Kent and Medway
KCC believes a single authority will provide Kent and Medway with a more powerful and coherent voice when negotiating with central government and regional partners. This is deemed particularly important given the border pressures Kent faces, including transport links and economic development.
Considering the Alternatives: Other Councils’ Proposals
Alongside KCC’s proposal, other district and borough councils across Kent and Medway have submitted alternative plans. These include creating three, four, or five separate unitary councils instead of a single Kent-wide authority.
KCC’s Concerns Regarding Multiple Council Structures
KCC has expressed concerns that multiple smaller councils could lead to higher overall costs and a longer timeframe to achieve financial savings. There is also apprehension about the risk of inconsistent service standards and potential difficulties coordinating county-wide strategies for social care, education, and infrastructure.
While these alternative models focus on greater local autonomy, KCC warns there could be trade-offs in efficiency and service integration.
The Path Ahead: Key Dates and What to Expect
The Government is currently reviewing all proposals received from Kent and Medway councils. This review includes a public consultation scheduled for next year, offering residents a chance to voice their opinions on the different options.
Project Timeline: From Decision to Implementation
- Public Consultation: Expected in early 2025
- Government Decision: Planned for summer 2026
- Shadow Authority Elections: May 2027
- Official Commencement of New Council Arrangements: April 2028
This timeline allows for careful planning and transition to ensure continuity of services.
Your Opportunity to Contribute: The Public Consultation
The forthcoming public consultation will provide residents, businesses, and community groups with an important opportunity to share their views on all submitted proposals. Participation is encouraged as the feedback will help shape the future governance of Kent and Medway.
KentLocal.co.uk will provide updates and guidance on how to take part once consultation details are published.
What This Means for Kent: A Look at the Broader Impact
The proposed local government reorganisation presents a significant change for Kent’s residents and communities. A single unitary authority could simplify decision-making, lead to financial savings, and create a more consistent approach to public services and taxation.
At the same time, careful consideration of local voices and service delivery remains vital to maintain trust and meet diverse community needs. Whether one council or several smaller councils are chosen, these decisions will shape how local democracy functions in Kent for decades ahead.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed and engaged throughout this process to ensure their interests are represented as Kent’s local governance evolves.
