Devolution can create growth in Kent says financial official
It's after the white paper we announced last week
A financial official has told us changed to local government could create more growth in Kent.
Last week - a devolution deal was announced by the government - which would give councils more power on decisions such as housing and panning. As a result, we could see a mayor in the county - combining Kent County Council and Medway Council.
Tudor Price is the CEO of Kent's Chamber of Commerce and he believes there are a many positives, he said: "Some of the challenges that have been in place, stopping growth across the country but also here in Kent and Medway have been brought about because of the way councils are structured so looking at the devolution plan we are really in favour of it.
"It's going to be huge for the public sector and local government and in the long run there will be a lot of opportunities that come down with increased funding, quicker decision making processes, savings in costs that will be had through streamlining some of the services that are out there.
"However, the needs of those in Ramsgate and Margate are very different to those in Cranbrook and Sevenoaks.
"Therefore, we must understand how the local issues, agendas and impacts are assessed and delivered effectively so we don't end up becoming a homogeneous, centralised form of government."