Reform UK has maintained its prominence at Kent County Council following its significant electoral victory in May 2025, when the party secured 57 out of 81 seats. The party’s continued focus on Kent’s political landscape comes as local government reform remains a central issue affecting the county’s future structure.

Since taking control of the council, Reform UK has pursued a notably different direction from the previous Conservative administration. Under the leadership of Linden Kemkaran, the party has challenged several aspects of the proposed local government reorganisation, including requesting a four-month extension to the government’s timeline for implementing sweeping changes across Kent.

The party’s manifesto emphasised priorities including financial stewardship and a focus on residents’ interests. Reform UK has also introduced alternative budget proposals, with the 2026/27 draft budget proposing a 3.99 per cent council tax increase—compared to the previous Conservative administration’s 4.99 per cent in 2025/26.

One of Reform UK’s early moves involved scrutinising the council’s financial records, with party chairman Zia Yusuf and other senior figures conducting what they described as an examination of Kent County Council’s books following their election victory.

The party has also signalled a different approach to local government reform itself. Rather than embracing the fast-track devolution priority programme that the previous administration endorsed, Reform UK sought to ensure residents’ interests remained central to any reorganisation proposals. This includes maintaining transparency in discussions with all councils across Kent and Medway, despite disagreements on reform direction.

Key policy shifts introduced by Reform UK include rescinding the County Council’s 2019 Climate Emergency Declaration and proposing a new Energy and Low Emissions Strategy with different priorities.

Kent’s local government landscape continues to evolve as discussions about the potential creation of three or four large unitary authorities, overseen by a directly elected mayor, remain ongoing. This represents one of the most significant changes to Kent’s governance structure in 50 years.

The council’s composition and direction remain subjects of active political debate, with different parties and independent councillors continuing to engage in discussions about Kent’s administrative future.

Key Takeaways

• Reform UK secured control of Kent County Council in May 2025, winning 57 of 81 seats
• The party has pursued different policies compared to the previous Conservative administration
• Reform UK requested a four-month extension to the government’s proposed local government reform timeline
• The party introduced alternative budget proposals with a lower proposed council tax increase
• Ongoing discussions continue regarding Kent’s future governance structure

What This Means for Kent Residents

Kent residents continue to navigate significant changes in how their local services are delivered and funded. Understanding the different approaches taken by various political groups at council level helps residents engage with local democracy and make informed decisions about representation that aligns with their priorities.