Kent’s Democracy Under Threat: Elections Cancelled, and Powers Centralised, Make Your Voice Heard!!

The future of Kent’s local government hangs in the balance as Kent County Council (KCC) officially submitted its application to join the Government’s Devolution Priority Programme (DPP). If approved, this move would bring sweeping changes, including the cancellation of the May 2025 elections, the introduction of a London-style mayor, and the abolition of all 14 existing councils in Kent and Medway.

This decision, made by KCC leadership without a referendum or meaningful public consultation, has sparked outrage among residents and opposition groups. The proposed changes represent one of the most significant overhauls of local governance in over half a century, yet Kent’s 1.8 million residents are being denied a say in the matter.

What’s Happening?

The Devolution Priority Programme, unveiled in the Government’s Devolution White Paper, aims to simplify and streamline local governance. Under the plan, Kent would adopt a Mayoral Strategic Authority, where a directly elected mayor holds significant powers over local services, including transport.

All 14 borough and district councils would be replaced by three or four larger unitary authorities, responsible for everything from housing to education. Elections for the new mayor could take place as early as May 2026, but to meet this timeline, the May 2025 local elections have already been postponed – a move criticised as a blatant attack on democracy.

A Power Grab Disguised as Progress

Supporters of the DPP claim it will bring additional funding and more streamlined decision-making to Kent. However, critics argue that it is a thinly veiled power grab that centralises authority, stripping local communities of their ability to influence decisions.

The introduction of a directly elected mayor is particularly controversial. As Cranbrook Councillor Sean Holden put it, “These London-style mayors are elective dictatorships.” Decisions that were once made collectively by local councils will now be concentrated in the hands of a single individual, with little clarity on how they can be held accountable.

Adding to the frustration is the lack of transparency. Just 39 councillors decided to move forward with this proposal, effectively sidelining the voices of Kent’s residents. The absence of a referendum only deepens the sense of betrayal.

Why This Matters

Local councils play a vital role in representing and serving their communities. They handle everything from waste collection to planning applications and social care. By replacing 14 councils with a few sprawling authorities, residents risk losing the direct connection to their representatives, who know their local areas intimately.

Moreover, reorganising services on such a massive scale is likely to cause significant disruption. The potential for delays, increased costs, and reduced efficiency during the transition period cannot be ignored. Instead of delivering better services, these changes could leave Kent’s communities worse off.

The Green Party’s Stance

The Green Party has consistently opposed the Devolution Priority Programme, highlighting its undemocratic nature and the risks it poses to local governance. We believe in democracy, transparency, and local representation – values that this proposal undermines.

We have called for:

  • A public referendum on the proposed changes.
  • An alternative approach that strengthens local councils rather than abolishing them.
  • A commitment to transparency and genuine public consultation.

Take Action Now

This is not a done deal. The Government has yet to approve Kent’s inclusion in the DPP, and there is still time to make your voice heard.

Sign the petition to reject KCC’s request and protect our democracy:

Let’s stand together for a fair, democratic Kent where every voice matters.

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