One Kent, One Council, Our Unique County

Kent County Council (KCC) has today submitted its Strategic Business Case for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Kent and Medway to Government. The proposal sets out KCC’s preferred option for a single unitary authority – the Kent Council – designed to simplify local government, strengthen services, and deliver better value for residents.

Why One Kent Council?

The Kent Council model would replace all existing councils with one authority supported by three Area Assemblies – North, East and West Kent – ensuring decisions on community services remain locally grounded.

Key benefits include:

• Financial sustainability: £69m annual savings, £99m transition cost, and payback in just 3.3 years – unlocking £457m cumulative savings over 10 years.
• Service resilience: Maintains countywide delivery of critical services, avoiding the risks and costs of splitting them into multiple councils.
• Fairness: One council tax rate, consistent services, and shared resources across Kent and Medway.
• Local responsiveness: Area Assemblies will shape community services like libraries and Family Hubs to meet local needs.
• Enhanced community engagement: Stronger partnerships with local people and places to keep communities represented and involved.
• Strategic leadership: One strong voice for Kent and Medway with Government and partners, supporting growth and infrastructure planning.

KCC Leader’s Statement

Linden Kemkaran, Leader of KCC, said: “Local Government Reorganisation is not something we asked for – it is a distraction at a time when councils should be focused on delivering for residents. But given government policy, we have a duty to make sure any changes work for the people of Kent. Splitting the county into smaller councils would weaken services, increase costs and put vulnerable people at risk.

"Our proposal for a single Kent Council is the most viable and responsible option. It protects our ability to manage the unique challenges of our county, delivers the greatest financial benefit, and ensures local voices are heard. This is about building a council that works for Kent and Medway – now and for the future.”

Other Proposals

Several councils in Kent and Medway have put forward proposals for creating three, four, or five separate councils. While KCC believes a different approach would better serve residents, shared financial modelling indicates these alternative options could involve significant costs, estimated between £128m and £139m, and may also take many years to deliver savings (5.4 to 14 years).

Evidence suggests that dividing Kent and Medway could lead to challenges in maintaining seamless services and introduce financial and operational risks, particularly in vital areas such as social care and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). It could also weaken Kent’s ability to manage border pressures and transport infrastructure, issues of national importance.

Next Steps

The Government will review all proposals and launch a public consultation next year. A decision on the preferred model is expected by summer 2026. If approved:

• May 2027: Elections for a shadow authority
• April 2028: New arrangements take effect

KCC has committed to working closely with partner councils and Government to ensure a smooth transition and minimal disruption for residents.

Source and picture credit: Kent County Council