Published: Wednesday, 26th August 2026
Medway Council is deeply saddened to hear the news of the death of former councillor and Leader Rodney Chambers OBE JP.
Cllr Chambers was the longest serving Leader of Medway Council, a position he held from 2000 to 2015.
Leading the tributes, Cllr George Perfect, Leader of the Medway Conservative Group, said: “It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of our friend and colleague, Rodney Chambers OBE JP. Rodney dedicated many years of service to Medway, including as Leader of Medway Council and Leader of the Medway Conservative Group.
“Throughout his public life, he showed unwavering commitment to local residents, helping to shape Medway through his leadership, vision and determination. His contribution to local government was recognised with an OBE, awarded by Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
“Rodney will be remembered not only for his public service, but also as a loyal friend, trusted colleague and devoted family man. Our deepest condolences go to his beloved wife Diane, his family, friends and all those whose lives he touched. He will be greatly missed."
Cllr Vince Maple, Leader of Medway Council, said: “Rodney was a dedicated elected representative serving the community, and his service on both Medway and predecessor councils – which includes being the longest-serving Leader of Medway Council – deserves absolute respect.
“By the nature of politics, we often disagreed across the chamber – but we always disagreed agreeably. Rodney would put party politics aside on key matters like fighting to retain the Royal Navy in Chatham or stop the ridiculous idea of an airport in the estuary.
“He was a well-known and much-loved face to many in Medway and he will be deeply missed. On behalf of everyone at Medway Council, I want to pass along my condolences to Diane, his family, friends and all those impacted by today’s sad news.”
Cllr Chambers was first elected to Kent County Council in 1974 where he served until 1981. He went on to represent residents on Gillingham Borough Council from 1987 to 1995 – where he was also Leader of the Conservative Group.
Cllr Chambers sat on Medway Council from its inception, representing the Hempstead and Wigmore ward until his retirement from the council in 2023.
As well as being Leader of the council, he served as the Portfolio Holder for Economic Regeneration from 2015 to 2023. Throughout his public service, Cllr Chambers was key to Medway’s ambitious regeneration plans, with his impact and legacy still visible today.
In 2011, Cllr Chambers was awarded an OBE by Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for services to local government.
As a mark of respect, the council flag will be lowered to half-mast tomorrow, Thursday 27 August.
Messages of condolence can be emailed to: Members@Medway.gov.uk.