Local councils across Kent are looking at how services could be delivered differently in the future through Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).
This could mean big changes: instead of having both Kent County Council and separate district/borough councils (like Gravesham), the system could be replaced by new unitary councils.
A unitary council looks after all local services in one place; things like waste collection, planning, housing, social care, highways and education.
Town and parish councils will not be affected.
Gravesham and Dartford’s proposal: Option 5a
While Kent Leaders recently agreed to develop business cases for two other models, Gravesham and Dartford believe there’s a better option for our communities.
Together, we are putting forward Option 5a, which would create five new unitary councils across Kent.
For our area, this would mean a new council covering:
- Dartford, Gravesham, Swanley and parts of Medway (west of the River Medway and south to Snodland)
The other four unitary councils would cover the rest of Kent.
Why this matters for residents
We believe Option 5a offers the right balance between being big enough to deliver services efficiently and local enough to understand our communities.
The key benefits are:
- Decisions made locally: services shaped by leaders who know their areas best.
- Protecting identity: Gravesham’s unique heritage and character would be safeguarded.
- Working in partnership: aligning with health and care services so residents get better outcomes.
- Fair and sustainable: councils sized to be financially stable without losing the local connection.
- Better value: structures that cut waste, adapt quickly, and focus resources where they’re needed most.
What happens next
Gravesham and Dartford will now prepare a detailed business case for Option 5a. This will be reviewed alongside other proposals being developed across Kent.
No final decisions have been made yet. For now, Gravesham Borough Council will continue to deliver all the services you rely on.
There will also be opportunities for residents to have their say before any changes are agreed.
Our goal is simple, to make sure any reorganisation puts people, communities and services first.
Quick guide to Local Government Reorganisation in Kent
What is Local Government Reorganisation?
It’s about simplifying local councils so that one organisation provides all your local services, instead of them being split between county and district councils.
What is option 5a?
A proposal from Gravesham and Dartford to create five new councils across Kent, including one covering Gravesham, Dartford, Swanley and part of Medway.
What happens next?
Different proposals are being developed and reviewed. The Government will make the final decision, expected in 2026