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.
About the review
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
How to take part
We welcome views from residents, businesses, community organisations and local groups.
The deadline for responses is 5pm on Monday 14 July.
A set of questions and answers has been published to help you understand what a town council is responsible for, how much it could cost, and the key issues the review will consider.
Paper copies of the consultation response form are available from Tonbridge Castle, Castle Street, Tonbridge TN9 1BG.
What happens next?
All responses received during this consultation will be reviewed, with a summary report presented to full council for a decision.