Council agrees position on preferred model for new councils
Both Full Council and Cabinet met on 17 November 2025 to discuss and agree a position on the draft business cases for Local Government Reorganisation.
The business cases, published on 5 November 2025, will help inform the next steps in the government’s biggest shake up of local councils in 50 years.
The cases, compiled with the help of experienced advisers KPMG, explore different options for the number of unitary councils in Kent and the areas they should cover in the future.
Full Council supported the recommended position that they should approve the business case for three unitary authorities (option 3A) in Kent and Medway. This would see Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Malling, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells become one of the three unitary authorities.
Following Full Council’s support for option 3A Cabinet agreed that this option be approved for submission to government.
Councils across the county are similarly agreeing their preferred model and associated business case for Local Government Reorganisation.
The business cases must be submitted to the government by Friday 28 November.
In the new year, the government is expected to carry out public consultation with all Kent residents on the preferred options.
A decision by the government on the final structure of unitary councils is expected in the summer.
You can read the business cases here: https://kentcouncilleaders.org.uk/councils-reveal-draft-business-cases-for-new-councils/
