The Business Case For A New Single Council For East Kent

The Business Case For A New Single Council For East Kent

The four district councils of Canterbury, Dover, Shepway and Thanet are to regard a high level Business Case into the option of forming a new single council for East Kent.

Approval means the existing four districts would be abolished and the creation of a new single East Kent council , which would be the largest of its kind in the country.

Developed by Local Partnerships and the Local Government Association

The Business Case have explored and set apart  pros and cons and the following prospects for the creation of a new, single council:

• Economic potential – East Kent is already recognised as a distinct economic area.
• A stronger East Kent voice with greater influence at a national and regional level.
• Greater economies of scale, greater resilience and more chance to secure funding.
• Greater scale to borrow and increase investment in East Kent.
• In two years time we could see a saving of £6.8m.
• In just over a year we could expect to recoup transitional costs.
• Potential for greater savings.
• Improved customer experience – consistent approach across our services for residents and the potential for improved value for money.
• Enhanced quality of services for residents.

Five East Kent councils originally gave approval to commission a Business Case in July 2016.

Ashford Borough Council has however has announced it no longer intends to be involved in the creation of a single council. Nonetheless Ashford remains strongly committed to working closely with any future new council.

22 March- The four way Business Case

Each council will decide whether to move to the next stage of public engagement after meetings to consider local effects.

Counsellor Chris Wells, Leader of Thanet District Council and spokesman for the East Kent districts, said:

“The Business Case clearly sets apart that the creation of a single East Kent council is an ambitious but valid next step for our councils. The East Kent districts already have a well-established track record of collaboration and sharing services and a new single council could improve and streamline our services. With greater scale and resources it could transform services at a higher quality and lower cost to residents, and strengthen our position economically.

“Members at each council will have to consider the implications and to agree whether we continue to the next stage. Given the noteworthy changes to local government, it is evident things cannot go on as they are so it is now for members to decide what happens next.”

The Secretary of State will have to approve if the councils decide to form a new council after public engagement. Should this be granted, it is predicted that a new council would legally take effect in April 2019. Elections to the new council would take place in May 2019.

Business Case documents, background information – including council reports and a list of Frequently Asked Questions

Available to view on each council website:

www.ashford.gov.uk/ekcouncils

www.canterbury.gov.uk/ekcouncils

www.dover.gov.uk/ekcouncils

www.shepway.gov.uk/ekcouncils

www.thanet.gov.uk/ekcouncils