Update on devolution and LGR in Kent and Medway

Ashford Borough Council welcomes the announcement in the Chancellor’s Budget on 28 October 2026 that Kent and Medway can progress towards a devolution arrangement.

Further details are awaited from the Government about what this will mean for the area.

Devolution would transfer powers and funding from central government to Kent and Medway, allowing more decisions to be made at a regional level.

It is separate from local government reorganisation (LGR), which changes the structure of councils and which councils deliver local services.

A Strategic Authority would bring together decisions and funding on matters such as transport, adult skills and local growth across Kent and Medway. The model has not yet been confirmed, including whether there would be an elected mayor.

What this means for local councils

Government has withdrawn its earlier LGR decision on boundaries while it considers the best way forward for Kent and Medway.

The LGR process therefore remains paused and currently there is no confirmation that the proposed 4b model, or any alternative, will be taken forward.

The current expectation is that the devolution arrangements could be operational by the end of 2028. If a mayoral model is agreed, preparations would be directed towards an election in 2028. These dates remain indicative and have not been confirmed.

Residents, businesses and community organisations should treat proposed council arrangements and implementation dates as provisional until the Government provides further information.

Possible next steps

The current working timetable remains subject to Government confirmation and may change:

• May 2027: elections for existing authorities.2028: proposed elections for shadow authorities, which would prepare for the new unitary councils before they begin delivering services.
• 2028: a possible mayoral election, if a mayoral devolution model is agreed.
• 2029: proposed start date for the new unitary council or councils.

Ashford Borough Council will provide further updates for residents and stakeholders when the Government confirms more details about devolution, future council arrangements and the timetable for any changes.