Protestors Rally at County Hall to Oppose Devolution White Paper Hearing in Kent County Council

Protests have taken place outside County Hall in Maidstone over the planned changes to local government

This morning, a dedicated group of demonstrators gathered outside County Hall in Maidstone to voice their opposition to the government’s Devolution White Paper, dubbed by many as the “Death of Local Democracy.”

Among the 20 protesters were Kent County Green Party councillors Mark Hood and Paul Stepto, who joined the rally before entering the chamber for a critical hearing on the proposed changes. They were supported by Green Party members from across Kent, including former data officer Steve Jackson.

The Devolution White Paper outlines plans to introduce an elected mayor for Kent and replace the current 14 councils with a few unitary authorities. Proponents argue the reforms will simplify governance and secure additional funding for the county. However, opponents warn of significant democratic risks, including the potential cancellation of May’s local elections and the centralisation of power into fewer hands.

Chants of “Don’t Kill Democracy”

Protesters stood resolute in their call for a slower, more thoughtful process. “The changes being foisted on us are being rushed,” said Stuart Jeffery, Green Party leader at Maidstone council. “The proposed cancellation of May’s elections is killing democracy. We need proper engagement with residents and an outcome that truly works for Kent.”

Inside the council chamber, KCC leader Roger Gough expressed his support for a fast-track approach, aiming to secure Kent’s place in the government’s devolution priority programme. But not everyone agreed.

Opposition groups, including the Greens, tabled amendments to ensure elections proceed, changes are guided by public consultation, and greater transparency replaces secrecy in decision-making.

Green Party Stance on Devolution

The Kent Green Party has consistently advocated for democratic reforms that empower communities rather than centralising authority. Councillor Mark Hood emphasised that while the party supports modernisation and collaboration among councils, the current proposals undermine local voices and risk derailing community-led decision-making

Green councillors have argued for a more gradual approach, ensuring adequate consultation with residents and stakeholders. They also highlighted the dangers of creating a system where unelected officials and a mayor, disconnected from local communities, hold disproportionate power over vital services.

Join the Fight for Local Democracy

The Kent Green Party remains committed to standing up for local democracy and opposing rushed, undemocratic changes to governance in the county. Today’s protest was a reminder of the importance of community voices in shaping our future

To learn more about the Devolution White Paper and the Green Party’s campaign to protect local democracy, click the links below.

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