The Government has announced it will work with Kent County Council and Medway Council towards the establishment of a Mayoral Strategic Authority for Kent and Medway, with the ambition of bringing it into effect in 2028.
This forms part of the announcement of a major national programme of devolution, which will see greater powers and funding transferred from central government to regions and communities across the country.
Linden Kemkaran, Leader of Kent County Council, said: “The announcement by the Chancellor gives us some much-needed clarity on the Government’s plans for Kent, a county with so much potential. Colleagues in local government have been clear for some time now that in order for residents to see real change and proper investment, we need an elected Mayor of Kent and Medway.
“Clearly there is still a lot of work to do and many questions that remain unanswered, but today’s announcement should be welcomed as an indication of moving towards a model that works better for people in our county.
“Having an elected Mayor of Kent and Medway has the potential to unlock additional powers and investment on housing, transport, infrastructure, skills and economic growth, exactly where it’s needed here in Kent.
“Our unique geography places us closely between Europe and London, making us the Gateway County – ideally located for business and growth. An elected Mayor who knows Kent & Medway inside out, will be the best judge of where money should be spent and how to achieve the best results for residents.”
For more information about devolution in Kent and Medway, click here.
