Reform UK’s tenure at Kent County Council (KCC), which began after a landslide victory in May 2025, has been marked by significant internal instability, financial controversy, and accusations of broken promises.

 

How is reform doing in Kent County Council ?

Reform UK’s tenure at Kent County Council (KCC), which began after a landslide victory in May 2025, has been marked by significant internal instability, financial controversy, and accusations of broken promises. Widely viewed as a national "shop window" for the party, the council’s performance has faced intense scrutiny from opposition parties and local residents.

 

Financial Management and Budgeting

The administration passed its first budget in February 2026, which was immediately labeled a "casino budget" by opposition leaders due to its reliance on one-off measures.

 

Council Tax: Despite pre-election promises not to raise taxes, the Reform-led council approved a 3.99% council tax increase for 2026/27.

Budget Deficit: Insiders have warned of a financial hole ranging from £60m to £100m, with opposition politicians cautioning that reserves have reached "dangerously low" levels.

Efficiency Savings: The council's "Department of Local Government Efficiency" (DOGE) team has been criticized for failing to deliver the "massive savings" promised during the campaign.

Wage Increases: In March 2026, the council approved a 3.6% pay rise for councillors’ basic allowances, increasing them to £16,885.05.

 

Political Instability and Scrutiny

The Reform group has seen a sharp decline in its membership due to infighting and disciplinary actions.

Councillor Departures: From an original 57 seats, the party’s count has dropped to roughly 48. Several councillors have been expelled or suspended, with some forming a new group called Restore Britain.

Committee Reductions: Facing a shortage of members to fill roles, the leadership has proposed slashing the number of scrutiny committees. Critics argue this is a move to avoid accountability.

Scandals: The administration has been embroiled in various controversies, including allegations of a "horror show" atmosphere and the hiring of political assistants at a cost of £140,000 despite ongoing budget cuts.

 

Key Opposition and Local Feedback

Voter Sentiment: Recent reports suggest growing dissatisfaction among some voters, citing a decline in service quality and broken tax pledges.

Upcoming Test: A crucial by-election in Cliftonville is being held today (April 9, 2026), which is being treated as a major test of whether the party still holds the public's confidence.

 

Council leader Linden Kemkaran maintains that the administration is making "tough decisions" to correct a "dire legacy" inherited from previous Conservative leadership.