Maidstone To Have Its Own Town Council — A Victory for Grassroots Democracy

In a historic decision taken at Full Council on Wednesday 29 April 2026, Maidstone Borough Council voted to create a new Maidstone Town Council — giving residents of the town's currently unparished area their own dedicated, locally accountable voice for the first time.

The new council will consist of 22 elected town councillors across 10 wards, with its vesting date set for 1 April 2027 and first elections in May 2027.

Deputy Leader Councillor Clive English (Liberal Democrat - High Street Ward) said:

"Creating a Maidstone Town Council is about day-to-day local democracy — putting residents, neighbourhoods and urban priorities firmly at the centre of decision-making. It gives people a clear, accountable council focused solely on the town. Just as importantly, it secures the future of the Mayor of Maidstone by keeping the role rooted in the town it serves, protecting our civic traditions and sense of place for generations to come."

The vote saw strong support from across the chamber, with Liberal Democrats, the Green Party, Labour, Fant & Oakwood, and Independent councillors all voting in favour. The Conservatives were split, with some voting in favour, some against, and some abstaining. Reform voted against the motion. We welcome all those who supported the proposal and respect that others took a different view.

Public consultation reflected clear community backing for the proposal. More than 70% of respondents preferred a single Town Council over alternatives such as multiple smaller parishes or charter trustees, and a petition of 489 signatures was submitted in support during the review.

Town and parish councils are democracy at its most immediate — elected local people making decisions about the streets, parks and neighbourhoods they live in. As Local Government Reorganisation reshapes local authority across Kent, having a Maidstone Town Council means the town retains its identity, its civic leadership, and its historic Mayoralty — an office with nearly 500 years of history.

The new council will begin with a shadow authority made up of existing borough councillors, working on governance, staffing and financial planning ahead of the 2027 elections. Initial assets proposed for transfer include local allotments, with any further decisions on services or assets to be made by the elected Town Council in due course.

Liberal Democrats are pleased to have supported this outcome and look forward to working with residents to shape what comes next.

Finally, a sincere thank you to everyone who responded to the consultation, signed the petition, and took the time to make their voice heard. This decision reflects what can be achieved when communities engage with the democratic process — and Maidstone's residents did exactly that.