Medway Council will look to explore commissioning a business plan for its proposal to create four unitary authorities across Kent and Medway as part of Local Government Reorganisation.
Following a meeting of Kent Leaders on Wednesday, 3 September two options were chosen to be taken forward for Kent and Medway’s councils’ advisers, KPMG, to work up a full business case for submission to government in November.
Medway’s proposal was not one of the two shortlisted. However, it was also agreed at the meeting that individual councils could also choose to commission and submit business plans for alternative options.
Medway put forward its proposal for four unitary authorities last month. It follows logical boundaries along natural transport routes and economic corridors – such as the M2, Thames Gateway, coastal zones – and importantly also recognises distinct existing communities throughout Kent socially, culturally and economically.
Each of the four unitary authorities would also meet Government’s criteria of serving a population of around 500,000, whilst also being able to remain responsive to local needs. This proposal would also create three authorities with a European connection – with the Channel Tunnel and ports sitting within East-Kent, Ashford International and Sevington Inland Border Facility within Mid-Kent and Ebbsfleet International within North-Kent – which would bolster the region’s collective voice with central government.
Shape local government
Cllr Vince Maple, Leader of Medway Council, said: “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to shape local government across our region of Kent and Medway and we have a collective responsibility to ensure we get it right. I believe that four unitary authorities will allow us to be big enough to be impactful and effective, but small enough to care.
“Throughout the Local Government Reorganisation process I have been consistently clear that I think four unitary authorities is the best way forward for residents and services across our region. Whilst we remain committed to continuing to work closely with the other 13 councils as we move towards our collective submission in November, I believe Medway’s proposal is a strong one and should be on the table when Government makes its decision on the future of Kent and Medway.”
The decision to commission the business plan will be put forward to Medway Council’s Cabinet on Tuesday, 23 September.
Residents are also reminded that the next Medway Matters Live event, where they will have the opportunity to hear about the latest news in Medway, including on Local Government Reorganisation, takes place at MidKent College, Gillingham on Wednesday, 8 October. Find out more and book your free ticket.