Council tax could increase to retain city statuses

People in parts of south-east England may have to pay up to £20 more a year in council tax for the city they live in to retain city status and to use its coat of arms, ahead of the Local Government Reorganisation.

The potentially affected cities are Canterbury in Kent and Brighton & Hove in East Sussex.

Under the reorganisation plans, Canterbury City Council is to be replaced by a new East Kent authority from 2028.

A Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government spokesperson said: "We recognise the pride, history and identity that sits behind our cities, which is why we will work with areas to make sure city status is preserved following reorganisation."

In Kent, Rochester lost its city status in the 1990s after the issue was overlooked during the creation of Medway Council and it has never regained it.

Canterbury City Council leader Alan Baldock told BBC Radio Kent: "Canterbury isn't at risk of losing its city status.

"We've had lots of work done and legal advice. We're not in the least bit concerned.

"As soon as the council ceases to exist in 2028, the charter trustees will be looking after the city status for us."

Baldock added that some money will be spent and there will be a "very small precept" to help cover the charter trustees, similar to other areas.

William Durrant, who runs Herringbone House in Canterbury, said: "Being a city adds more status to my business and brings more people and money into the area.

"We are the only city in Kent and need to hang onto that. I know money is tight for many, but this is something worth paying to keep."

Danny Munn, who lives in Canterbury, said: "It will always be a city because it is a city. Would a rose smell any sweeter if it were by another name?

"I don't need to spend any more money because in my heart of hearts it will always be a city."

Brighton & Hove City Council leader Bella Sankey said: "Since receiving city status, Brighton & Hove has become an internationally recognised city.

"We will be working alongside the government, which has well established processes in place, to ensure we not only retain our city status but continue to flourish and make the most of the opportunities local government reorganisation will bring."

Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.