Royal Tunbridge Wells is a step closer to having its own Town Council after Tunbridge Wells Borough Council unanimously voted in favour of the proposal.
Subject to completion of the remaining statutory process, residents will elect their first Town Councillors in May 2027. The proposal forms part of the wider reorganisation of local government in Kent, which will see a new West Kent Unitary Authority replace Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and Kent County Council from April 2028.
Preparatory work can now begin to establish the new council, including appointing a Town Clerk, putting governance arrangements in place and preparing the council's first budget. Initially, the Town Council will have limited responsibilities.
Following the May 2027 elections, the new Town Councillors will be able to consider taking on additional local services, community facilities and assets. Any future changes would need to be negotiated and agreed with the new West Kent Unitary Authority.
Stuart Anderson, Chair of the Royal Tunbridge Wells Town Forum, said: "This is an important milestone for Royal Tunbridge Wells. As West Kent moves to a new unitary council, it is important that Royal Tunbridge Wells has the same opportunity as other towns across West Kent to develop a strong, effective Town Council that reflects the aspirations of its residents. Many residents are still unaware that these changes are taking place. Over the coming months, the Town Forum will publish a series of clear briefing papers explaining what the new Town Council is, how it fits into wider local government changes, and the choices that future elected Town Councillors will be able to make."
The Town Forum's aim is to help residents understand the changes ahead so they can take an informed part in discussions before the first Town Council elections in May 2027.
For further information visit http://townforum.org.uk/news.html
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