Rochester and city status

As is well known, Rochester lost its official city status in 1998 when the current Medway Council was formed. This was apparently deliberate but the reason is unknown (either saving a few quid or animosity).

https://democracy.medway.gov.uk/Data/Regeneration%20&%20Community%20Overview%20and%20Scrutiny%20Committee/20030304/Agenda/Report%20(Agenda%20item%205)%203.pdf 

Medway repeatedly apply for city status (for the whole of Medway Council) and have, repeatedly, been denied. They are adamant that any city status should be for the whole borough.

However I think I have found a solution. The historic area of the (former) City of Rochester can no longer form "Charter Trustees". What they can do is become a Parish/Town council, i.e. a local authority in their own right. This could then apply for city status, and also as its own council would be able to independently do some minor functions like keep the city centre clear of litter.

http://askyourcouncil.uk/understanding-your-council/list-of-legal-powers-and-duties/

I am not sure if Medway can object but sub-district authorities are fairly common in the UK and a few have city status (e.g. Ely).

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