Reform leader says one new council should run Kent and Medway

KCC leader Linden Kemkaren says a single local authority for the whole of Kent would make economic sense

The leader of Kent County Council (KCC) has called for all of the councils in the county, including KCC and Medway, to be replaced with a single authority.

On Friday Reform UK-led KCC published its response to government plans to overhaul local government.

KCC's proposal is to create one Kent Council, rather than dividing the county up into a number of single-tier unitaries.

Leader Linden Kemkaran claimed this would be the most cost-effective model for council tax payers and would "protect our ability to manage the unique challenges of our county".

Currently most of Kent operates a two-tier system, with responsibilities split between KCC and districts and boroughs, apart from Medway which is a unitary authority in charge of all services.

Kemkaran 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."

Kent County Council faces abolition under plans to reform local government

Reform UK said its single authority approach could save about £69m a year, deliver services more efficiently and provide a stronger voice to represent the county.

The government is expected to make a decision based on this and other proposals in the summer of 2026.

Elections for the new authority or authorities could then be held in May 2027, with the changes taking effect in April 2028.