The leader of Kent County Council has issued a campaign appeal encouraging residents to continue supporting Reform UK at future elections. The message comes as the party consolidates its position following its May 2025 election victory, when it secured 57 of the 81 available seats at County Hall.

Reform UK’s takeover of the council marked a significant shift in Kent’s political landscape. The party swept to power with a mandate focusing on financial scrutiny, value for money, and reshaping how the council operates. Since taking control, the administration has positioned itself as bringing fresh perspectives to local governance during a period of substantial structural change.

One of the council’s most pressing challenges remains the ongoing local government reform process. Kent’s two-tier system of district, borough, and county councils is being dismantled in favour of larger unitary authorities overseen by a directly elected mayor. Under current proposals, mayoral elections could take place by May 2026, with unitary authority elections following a year later or in 2028.

Reform UK has stated it will engage transparently with all councils across Kent and Medway throughout this process, whilst ensuring resident interests remain central. The party has also requested extensions to government timelines where necessary to allow proper planning and consultation.

The administration has proposed a council tax increase of 3.99% for the 2026/27 financial year, slightly below the government’s permitted threshold of 5% for adult social care authorities. This demonstrates the party’s stated commitment to fiscal responsibility, though council finances remain under considerable pressure due to rising demand for services, particularly in adult social care.

The party has also pledged to bring forward new energy and environmental strategies, whilst rescinding the previous administration’s climate emergency declaration. Reform UK argues this approach balances environmental responsibility with practical concerns affecting local businesses and residents.

As Kent enters what could be one of the most significant periods of local government change in decades, Reform UK is positioning itself as the party best placed to navigate the transition. The party’s appeal for continued voter support suggests it intends to contest upcoming elections at both county and unitary authority levels.

The coming months will prove crucial in shaping how Kent’s new governance structures take form and whether Reform UK’s current administration can deliver on its promises of improved efficiency and financial stewardship.

Key Takeaways

• Reform UK took control of Kent County Council in May 2025 with 57 of 81 seats
• The party is campaigning for continued electoral support as local government reform accelerates
• Reform UK is proposing a 3.99% council tax increase for 2026/27, below the government maximum
• Local government restructuring is expected to see mayoral elections by May 2026, with unitary authority elections to follow

What This Means for Kent Residents

Kent residents face significant changes to how their local government operates over the coming years. Reform UK’s messaging suggests the party intends to remain a central force in shaping these changes. With local government reform reshaping council structures and the party holding the largest bloc of seats at county level, the outcomes of future elections will likely determine the direction of services and spending priorities for years to come.