Ashford Borough Council has welcomed the news that the region can move forward with devolution, which would transfer powers and funding from central government to allow more decisions to be made at a regional level. Further details are still awaited from the Government regarding the specifics of this arrangement. Devolution is separate from local government reorganisation (LGR), which focuses on changing the structure of councils and service delivery.
A proposed Strategic Authority would consolidate decisions and funding for areas such as transport, adult skills, and local growth across Kent and Medway. The exact model, including whether it will feature an elected mayor, has not yet been confirmed. The Government has withdrawn its earlier LGR decision on boundaries while it considers the best way forward, meaning the LGR process remains paused.
The current expectation is that devolution arrangements could be operational by the end of 2028, with potential mayoral elections in 2028 if that model is agreed. These dates are indicative and subject to confirmation. Residents, businesses, and community organisations are advised to treat proposed council arrangements and implementation dates as provisional.
The working timetable, subject to Government confirmation, includes potential elections for existing authorities in May 2027, proposed elections for shadow authorities in 2028 to prepare for new unitary councils, and a possible mayoral election in 2028. The proposed start date for new unitary councils is 2029.
