Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)

The UK Government wants to reorganise local government. This means councils across Kent will be replaced by one or more unitary council - providing all services within a specific area.

The plans would see the merging of the current two-tier councils, including county, district, and borough, to make a smaller number of larger single unitary authorities. These new unitary councils would deliver all local services, from education and roads to emptying bins and providing council housing. The government says this would be simpler and more efficient.

The UK Government has asked councils to develop a plan for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), with the proposals being submitted by 28 November 2025. All councils in Kent are working together to put forward joint proposals, including options for a three and a four unitary council model.

The two proposals being looked at in detail are:

• Three unitary councils, which would see Swale grouped with Medway, Gravesham and Dartford.

• Four unitary councils, which would see Swale grouped with Ashford and Folkestone and Hythe councils.

For more information about Local Government Reorganisation in Kent, visit the Kent Council Leaders website.

You can also find out more and complete a survey at www.kent.gov.uk/lgrengagement by 26 October 2025.