This consultation closed at 5pm 14 July 2025
What happens next?
All responses received during will be reviewed, with a summary report presented to full council for a decision.
About the review
Following a decision made at full council in February 2025 and the submission of a valid petition, Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council is consulting residents on whether a town council should be formed in Tonbridge to provide some local services.
Community Governance Reviews (CGR) are a process where councils can consult on local governance arrangements, including the creation of new parish or town councils.
Tonbridge currently does not have a parish or town council. Services for the town are provided directly by both Tonbridge and Malling Borough and Kent County Councils.
The review will consider:
- Whether a town council should be established
- Potential boundaries for the town council
- Electoral arrangements, including the number of councillors
The final decision will be made by Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council following completion of the review process.
What would a town council do?
A town council has the same powers as a parish council. It has elected councillors and works to serve the interests of the local community . It would:
- Be a separately elected body of councillors representing the community
- Have powers to deliver local services or support initiatives, subject to available resources
- Have the ability to raise a precept (an additional amount added to council tax) to fund its activities
Proposed area served by a town council for Tonbridge
