The Kent Politics Podcast

40 Episodes
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Welcome to The Kent Politics Podcast, your go-to source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters. Join us as we take a deep dive into local government across the county, find out what the key decision makers have to say, what your money is being spent on and how the party’s policies could affect how we live. Stay tuned for our regular feature, ‘Westminster Watch', where we dissect the latest developments and decisions shaping the political landscape in the heart of the UK’s capital. Engage with us as we delve into the issues that matter to you an...

EP74: Reform's debut, Kent's not working and making plans for Medway, special guest Damian Green
#74
Yesterday at 11:00 PM

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 74 - Reform's debut, Kent's not working and making plans for Medway, special guest Damian Green 

This episode features a critical analysis of local governance issues, including the unveiling of Medway Council’s local plan and Reform UK’s debut in Kent County Council. We also welcome former Ashford MP Damian Green to reflect on his life after Westminster.

Key Segments:

Medway's Controversial Local Plan:

Medway Council’s 15-year housing and infrastructure strategy.Debate surrounding Chatham Docks’ residential development plans.Public consultation details following robust council debates.

EP73: Rachel Reeves, KCC denied extension and special guest Tory group leader Harry Rayner
#73
06/26/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 73 - Rachel Reeves, KCC denied extension and special guest Tory group leader Harry Rayner 

 

Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast! Your go-to source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters. Join us as we delve into key issues affecting our community, from funding challenges to policy impacts. 

Episode Highlights: 

Government Funding Opportunities: 

Discussion on possible government funding announcements expected between now and December.The financial expectations for the incoming administration's budget in 2026-27, with a focus on finding £120 to £130 million.

Westmins...


EP72: Fake elephants, Doge claims questioned, and special guest Reform's Cllr Maxwell Harrison
#72
06/19/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 72 - Fake elephants, Doge claims questioned, and special guest Reform's Cllr Maxwell Harrison 

Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your premier source for in-depth discussions on both local and national political issues. This episode delves into the intricacies of governance across Kent County, featuring insights from key decision-makers.

Episode Highlights

Local Governance and Community Issues

Giant Fibreglass Elephant Saga: Rob discusses Medway Council's removal of an 8-foot elephant slide due to safety concerns, highlighting community reactions.

KCC Financial Scrutiny: Matt covers recent cl...


EP71: More houses planned, fears over disorder, campaign success and special guest Stuart Tranter
#71
06/12/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 71 - More houses planned, fears over disorder, campaign success and special guest Stuart Tranter 

Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide to local and national political matters affecting Kent. 

Episode Highlights:

Local Government Insights

Chatham Docks: Discussed as an example of local government challenges.Medway Housing Plans: Rob reports on public consultations about 350 new homes proposed for All Hallows village amidst infrastructure concerns.

Antisocial Behaviour in Herne Bay

Dan covers efforts led by Councillor Liz Harvey addressing har...


EP70: DOGE arrives at KCC, another restaurant busted for immigration offences and special guest Matthew Scott
#70
06/05/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 70 - DOGE arrives at KCC, another restaurant busted for immigration offences and special guest Matthew Scott 

This week’s episode delves into recent developments across Kent County Council with a focus on governance efficiency, election costs, immigration enforcement challenges, and major housing development proposals. 

Key Segments: 

Election Synchronisation Debate: 

Discussion around holding PCC elections simultaneously with county elections to reduce costs and increase voter turnout.Insights from Matthew Scott regarding his role as PCC amidst low public recognition but significant impact through funding initiatives.

Doge A...


EP69: Medway's Local Plan, waste dump crisis, estate management anger, and special guest County Councillor Stuart Heaver
#69
05/29/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 69 - Medway's Local Plan, waste dump crisis, estate management anger, and special guest, County Councillor Stuart Heaver 

The episode explores Kent's political landscape, focusing on Reform UK's rise in the County Council. Key topics include Medway’s Local Plan delays, residents challenging estate management in Ebbsfleet, and illegal fly-tipping likened to "county lines" crime. The podcast features Westminster Watch for national politics and an interview with Green Councillor Stuart Heaver.

Episode Highlights:

Introduction: Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your source for in-depth discussions on local and...


EP68: Council's botched traveller eviction, school farm closure fears and special guest, former KCC leader Roger Gough
#68
05/25/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 68 - Council's botched traveller eviction, school farm closure fears and special guest, former KCC leader Roger Gough 

 Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, your go-to source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters. Join us as we delve into key issues affecting Kent, featuring interviews with decision-makers and analysis of policies impacting our lives.

Episode Highlights:

Local Government & Devolution

A deep dive into why Kent missed out on becoming part of the first wave in government’s local reorganisation.Forme...


EP67: Red tape woes, illegal workers and special guest, KCC leader Linden Kemkaran
#67
05/15/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 67 - Red tape woes, illegal workers and special guest, KCC leader Linden Kemkaran 

Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide to local and national political matters. This week, we delve into pressing issues affecting Kent with our team of reporters and special guests.

IN THIS WEEK'S EPISODE; 

Local Government Reorganisation: Reform UK's new leader in Kent, Linden Kemkaran, discusses her plans for KCC following a significant election win. We explore potential changes in local governance and how these might impact res...


EP66: KCC under new leadership, Labour bother in Dover and special guest Cllr Mike Baldock
#66
05/08/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST  

Episode 66 - KCC under new leadership, Labour bother in Dover and special guest Cllr Mike Baldock 

Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide to understanding both local and national political dynamics from a Kent perspective. This week, we dive into significant shifts in local governance and explore how these changes might impact residents.

Episode Highlights:

Reform UK Takes Control

Election Shock: Reform UK's stunning victory at Kent County Council has reshaped the political landscape, ousting long-standing Tory figures.New Leadership: As...


EP65: Kent goes to the polls, disorder in Dover, and Labour lets suspended councillors back in. Plus special guest Martin Baxter of Electoral Calculus
#65
05/01/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST  

Episode 65 - Kent goes to the polls, disorder in Dover, and Labour lets suspended councillors back in. Plus special guest Martin Baxter of Electoral Calculus  

Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your go-to source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters. This episode delves into the complexities of predicting election outcomes amidst a landscape filled with marginal seats and dynamic party politics.

Key Segments

Local Election Insights: Explore the latest developments in Medway, including Labour councillors' reinstatement after suspension and legal concerns over Chatham docks.

...


EP64: Cost of democracy, Kemi visits again, and protests planned. Plus special guest, Cllr Teresa Murray
#64
04/24/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 64 - Cost of democracy, Kemi visits again, and protests planned. Plus special guest, Cllr Teresa Murray

Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide to local and national political discussions with a focus on Kent.

Episode Highlights:

By-Election Costs in Medway

Robert Boddy reports on February's by-elections in Medway.Discover how £60,000 was spent for only 4,225 votes cast from an electorate of over 21,000.The cost per vote stands at £14.30; insights into voter apathy are explored.

Upcoming Protest in Dover

Da...


EP63: Investigation reveals £20m of unspent funds, Premier Inn homes latest and special Labour's Roger Truelove
#63
04/17/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 63 - Investigation reveals £20m of unspent funds, Premier Inn homes latest and special guest Labour's Roger Truelove

Welcome to another engaging episode of the Kent Politics Podcast. Here's a rundown of what's covered:

Local Politics and Funding Discussions

Introduction to Section 106 Payments: Dan opens up about his substantial investigation into Section 106 payments. These are contributions from developers intended to fund community projects like education and health. Surprisingly, Dan reveals through FOI requests that a staggering £20 million collected by Medway Council lies unspent, particularly in the health se...


EP62: Spiky public meeting, council contractor goes under, and special guest Martin Baxter from Electoral Calculus
#62
04/10/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 62 - Spiky public meeting, council contractor goes under, and special guest Martin Baxter from Electoral Reform

Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters.

This week on the Kent Politics Podcast, we delve into the fluid and dynamic landscape of British politics with guest Martin Baxter, CEO of Electoral Calculus. Simon & The Team provide the usual insights into local government issues, upcoming elections, and recent polling data suggesting potential shifts in political control within Kent County Council.

<...


EP61: Farage, flat blocks, and park and ride flak, with special guest Nigel Farage
#61
04/03/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 61 - Farage, flat blocks, and park and ride flak, with special guest Nigel Farage

Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters. On this week's episode;

Episode Highlights:

Medway's Housing Initiative: Robert Boddy discusses Medway Council’s ambitious £42 million plan to purchase properties for temporary accommodation, aiming to counter rising private rental costs. The council is currently negotiating the acquisition of two blocks totaling 130 units.

Canterbury's Park and Ride Dilemma: Danielson examines Canterbury City Coun...


EP60: Fire and rehire, university strikes, road plans, and special guest Alan Jarrett
#60
03/28/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 60 - Fire and rehire, university strikes, road plans, and special guest Alan Jarrett

Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide for insightful discussions on both local and national political matters. Join Simon and the team as they explore the intricate workings of local government across Kent.

In This Episode:

Medway Council Controversy: Discover why Medway Council is under fire for alleged "fire and rehire" tactics affecting swimming instructors. Learn about the council's restructuring efforts and hear from those impacted by these changes.

...


EP59: Town misses out on £6m health cash, predictions for future of Kent's Councils, and Special Guest - Reform's William Fotheringham-Bray
#59
03/21/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 59 - Town misses out on £6m health cash, predictions for future of Kent's Councils, and Special Guest - Reform's William Fotheringham-Bray

The latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast delves into pressing issues in Kent, including a funding reallocation controversy in Medway, proposed council restructures, roadwork disruptions, and a political incident involving Reform UK's William Fotheringham Bray. It also touches on potential benefit system cuts and encourages listeners to stay informed via various platforms.

Health Funding Controversy in Medway:

Strood residents were promised £6 million for a healthy li...


EP58: Two-year road closure rumbles on, Innovation Park finally gets tenant, and special guest Labour's Cllr Alister Brady
#58
03/14/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 58 - Two-year road closure rumbles on, Innovation Park finally gets tenant, and special guest Labour's Cllr Alister Brady

 

In this week's episode;

Key Segments:

1. Innovation Park Medway Update

Discussion Lead: Robert BoddyHighlights:BAE Systems becomes the first tenant at Innovation Park Medway.The park is restructured with industrial focus and residential care facilities.A strategic move by Labour Cabinet following previous administration oversights.

2. Kent Roadworks Chaos

Discussion Lead: Simon FinleyInsights:Interview with Neil Baker (Highways Chief) reveals lack of control over ut...


EP57: Innovation Park scaled back, traffic chaos in Hawkhurst, and Medway hospital gets bad CQC rating - this week's special guest is Gary Cooke
#57
03/07/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 57 - Innovation Park scaled back, traffic chaos in Hawkhurst, and Medway Hospital gets bad CQC rating. This week's special guest is Gary Cooke.

Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide to local and national political affairs. 

Key Topics Discussed This Week:

Medway's Innovation Park

Update: Plans revived for a business park near Rochester Airport.Changes: Shift from office spaces to industrial use; addition of care home facilities.Reactions: Mixed responses from former council leaders regarding site utilisation.

Traffic C...


EP56: Balancing the books, 40-year road scandal and special guest Rochester and Strood MP Lauren Edwards
#56
02/28/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 56 - Balancing the books, 40-year road scandal and special guest Rochester and Strood MP Lauren Edwards

Welcome to another episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide to local and national political discussions. In this episode, we delve into key financial strategies at Medway Council, a long-awaited road project in Kent, and insights from Rochester and Strood MP Lauren Edwards.

Key Segments:

Medway Council's Financial Strategies:

Overview: Medway Council is focusing on balancing its books by selling non-operational properties valued up to £34 million.Properties fo...


EP55: Redevelopments, Budgets and Henry Bolton
#55
02/21/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 55 - Redevelopments, Budgets and Henry Bolton

Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide for engaging discussions on both local and national political landscapes. This episode delves into key issues affecting Kent, from council budget challenges to redevelopment plans and contentious planning inquiries.

Key Segments

Medway Council's Financial Challenges

Sean Delaney discusses Medway Labour's financial hurdles.The council is optimistic about receiving £18.5 million government funding but faces setbacks with rejected tax increases.Public services face cuts, impacting parking fees and leisure facility costs amidst a...


EP54: Reform make progress, Tories receive good news and special guest Cllr Sean Holden
#54
02/14/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 54 - Reform make progress, Tories receive good news and special guest Cllr Sean Holden 

In this week's Episode;

Local Election Dynamics:

Labour's mixed results in Medway with Reform UK gaining ground.The impact of low voter turnout on election outcomes.Current council composition post-elections and potential shifts in power dynamics.

Westminster Watch:

Controversial discussions surrounding small boats crossing the Channel.Labour's new Border Security Asylum and Immigration Bill versus Conservative policies.

Upcoming Elections & Predictions:

Insights into private polling predicting a shift towards Conservatives de...


EP53: Devolution blow, MP comeback and special guest Cllr Ian Chittenden
#53
02/07/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 53 - Devolution blow, MP comeback and special guest Cllr Ian Chittenden

Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your definitive guide to local and national political discussions. This episode delves into the complexities of local government finance, devolution developments in Kent and Medway, upcoming council elections, and rural crime issues.

Key Segments

Local Government Finance Crisis

Medway Council Budget Woes: Robert Boddy discusses Medway's financial struggles with a predicted £8 million overspend.Potential Bankruptcy Risks: The looming threat of a Section 114 order if budget issues aren't resolved.

EP52: Three Dodgy Dealers, One Dodgy Copper and a City for Medway, featuring Sir Paul Carter
#52
01/31/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 52 - Three Dodgy Dealers, One Dodgy Copper and a City for Medway, featuring Sir Paul Carter 

On this week's episode: 

Episode Highlights:

Empowering Entrepreneurs: The host discusses the importance of supporting entrepreneurs to boost the economy.Local Government Insights: Dive into Medway's bid for city status, police misconduct hearings, and a car mileage fraud case in Kent.Lower Thames Crossing Update: Learn about recent government backing and its implications on local congestion.

Key Segments:

Medway City Status Bid

Medway Council seeks city status as...


EP51: Taxpayer millions, Medway's Big Brother and MPs raised voices and special guest John Britt
#51
01/24/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 51 - Taxpayer millions, Medway's Big Brother and MPs raised voices and special guest John Britt 

Join us as we delve into pressing issues affecting local communities, from uncollected fines in Medway to a controversial housing development in Lenham. With special guest John Britt, Parish Council Chairman and campaign leader against a massive housing project, we explore the complexities of local government decisions and their impact on taxpayers.

Key Discussions: 

Medway's Fine Collection Dilemma 

Robert Boddy delves into Medway Council’s new schemes like school streets and AM...


EP50: Care Home Construction, Dover Defections, Local Government Re-organisation Latest and Special Guest Richard Hicks
#50
01/17/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 50 - Care Home Construction, Dover Defections, Local Government Re-organisation latest and Special Guest Richard Hicks 

In our milestone 50th episode, Simon & the team explore significant events across Kent County, focusing on council devolution and its implications.

Key Discussions:

Medway Council’s New Proposals:

Plans to build and operate a residential care home for increased efficiency.Estimated cost: £26 million over 30 years for approximately 80 additional beds.

Political Shifts in Dover District Council:

Labour's transition from majority to minority administration due to recent defections.

Kent Count...


EP49: Money for Medway, Blue Bell Hell and a Piece of Yellow Paper with Special Guest Mike Martin MP
#49
01/10/2025

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 49 - Money for Medway, Blue Bell Hell and a Piece of Yellow Paper with special guest Mike Martin MP  

Welcome to the first Kent Politics Podcast of 2025! Dive into a year full of political developments with Simon Finley and his team as they explore local government issues in Kent.

Key Topics Discussed:

Local Government Changes:

Angela Rayner's Devolution Revolution: Potential for a county mayor by May 2026 and new super councils.Medway Council Budget: An increase in funding but still facing financial shortfalls.

Planning & Development:


EP48: Devolution, Revolution, and Special Guest Kevin McKenna MP
#48
12/20/2024

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 48 -  Devolution, Revolution, and Special Guest Kevin McKenna MP 

Is devolution the end of Kent's local councils as we know them? Dive into this week's gripping episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, where big changes are on the horizon. Join Simon and the team as they explore the potential dissolution of Kent County Council, Medway Council, and others in favour of a new mayoral system. This episode uncovers insights from key political figures about upcoming by-elections in Medway and Swale Borough Council's shifting coalitions.

Local Government Reform

Dev...


EP47: Winter Fuel Allowance, Housing Developments and what's wrong with the NHS plus Special Guest Dr Julian Spinks
#47
12/13/2024

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 47 - Winter Fuel Allowance, Housing Developments and what's wrong with the NHS plus Special guest Dr Julian Spinks 

Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide to understanding local and national political matters. This episode dives into pressing issues facing the NHS, housing developments in Kent, and community initiatives like Small Business Saturday.

Key Segments:

NHS Challenges:

Discussion on systemic struggles within the NHS and care industry.Insights from Dr. Julian Spinks on Labour's plans for healthcare reform.Examination of soc...


EP46: Housing, Housing & the first possible Kent Mayor contender with special guest Cllr Thomas Mallon
#46
12/06/2024

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 46 - Housing, Housing & the first possible Kent Mayor contender with special guest Cllr Thomas Mallon 

Episode Highlights:

Medway Council's Social Housing Review:

Medway Council underwent a new inspection process post-Grenfell tragedy.Rated C2 by regulators; plans are underway for improvements.Key issues included outdated paperwork and non-compliance with decent home standards.

Controversial Planning Development in High Weald:

A planning application for homes near Cranbrook is back in focus after court rulings.The development has sparked concerns among locals about countryside conservation.

Kent County Council Re...


EP45: Dirty beaches, Reform UK does the double and former MP Kelly Tolhurst
#45
11/29/2024

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 45 -  Dirty beaches, Reform UK does the double and former MP Kelly Tolhurst

Join Simon and the team as they explore the political landscape of Kent, providing insights into both local issues and national debates. This episode covers a range of topics from school initiatives to electoral changes.

Key Topics:

School Streets Initiative in Medway

Expansion Plans: Increase from 7 to 16 streets.Feedback: Positive response from teachers/residents; concerns about spillover traffic.Political Intervention: Tory demands for broader consultation may delay proceedings.

Water Quality Concerns


EP44: Farmer’s fury, the first Brexit domino, and Kent’s biggest solar farm, with special guest Polly Billington MP
#44
11/22/2024

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 44 - Farmer’s fury, the first Brexit domino, and Kent’s biggest solar farm, with special guest Polly Billington MP

Welcome to the latest edition of the Kent Politics Podcast, your go-to source for insightful discussions on both local and national political matters. In this episode, we delve into significant events shaping Kent's political landscape, from historical by-elections to contemporary infrastructure projects.

Key Segments

1. Rochester and Strood By-Election Anniversary

Discussion: Reflecting on the intense 2014 Rochester and Strood by-election when Mark Reckless defected from Conservatives to UKIP...


EP43: What new tax could mean for farmers, council at risk of bankruptcy and Special Guest Peter Carroll
#43
11/15/2024

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 43 - What new tax could mean for farmers, council at risk of bankruptcy and Special Guest Peter Carroll

In this episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, our host Simon Finlay and the team dive into pressing political issues affecting both Kent and broader regions.

Key Discussions:

Medway Council Financial Crisis

Gabriel Morris reports a projected £11.2 million overspend by Medway Council.The crisis is driven by social care department expenses.An early budget release seeks to encourage funding discussions to avoid bankruptcy measures like a section 114 no...


EP42: Schools going mixed, police misconduct, and the cost of special needs education, featuring special guest Cllr Mark Hood
#42
11/08/2024

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 42 - Schools going mixed, police misconduct, and the cost of special needs education, featuring special guest Cllr Mark Hood 

In this episode, we discuss pivotal local issues like education reforms and police misconduct while also delving into broader political dynamics within the county.

Key Segments:

Local Government Insights:

The importance of delivering services at a community level.Challenges faced by councils due to insufficient funding from central government.

Education News (Robert Boddy):

Transition of Medway's single-sex grammar schools to coeducational institutions.Mixed reactions fr...


EP41: Docklands, trolleys Budget bombshells and a broken bridge, with special guest Ashford MP Sojan Joseph
#41
11/01/2024

 

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 41 - Docklands, trolleys Budget bombshells and a broken bridge, with special guest Ashford MP Sojan Joseph

Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, your ultimate source for in-depth discussions on both local and national political matters. This week we explore significant developments impacting both Kent's and the UK's political landscape.

Key Segments:

Local Government Updates:

Chatham Docks Controversy:Medway Council’s planning decision stands as Angela Rayner decides not to intervene.Mixed reactions from local stakeholders including former MP Kelly Tol...


EP40: Levelling up, pothole perils and the cost of a name change, with special guest Cllr Sean Holden
#40
10/24/2024

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 40 - Levelling up, pothole perils and the cost of a name change, with special guest Cllr Sean Holden

Dive into the intricate world of local politics with Simon Finlay and the team as they discuss key issues affecting Kent County Council and its political landscape.

Key Segments:

Council Challenges & Name Changes:

Medway's KMPT rebrands to KMMH at a cost of £250k amid criticism for long waiting times.The rationale behind the name change was to improve public awareness but faced backlash due to ongoing service d...


EP39: Medieval manor up for sale, Dover checks delayed again and special guest Cllr Antony Hook
#39
10/17/2024

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 39 -  Medieval Manor up for sale, Dover checks delayed again and special guest Cllr Antony Hook

Dive into the Kent Politics Podcast and explore the intricacies of local governance, national affairs, and international relations. This episode unravels Medway Council's financial strategies, discusses delays in EU border systems impacting Dover, and highlights concerns over email scams in Maidstone. Plus, get insights on upcoming elections with Cllr Anthony Hook.

KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED

Medway Council's Financial Strategy:

Proposed sale of properties like Temple Manor to counter £16 million overspend.Ai...


EP38: Obese children, Reform eyes KCC takeover and special guest Cllr Stanley Forecast
#38
10/10/2024

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 38 - Obese children, Reform eyes KCC takeover and special guest Cllr Stanley Forecast

Welcome to another engaging episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, where we delve into both local and national political landscapes with a friendly, insightful approach. This week’s discussion features conversations with key political figures and reporters covering the intricacies of Kent County Council (KCC), Medway Council, and various local districts.

Key Discussion Points

Youth in Politics

Importance of young people engaging in politics to address issues like homeownership.

Medway's Fight Ag...


EP37: Rosie Duffield quits Labour, school place troubles and special guest Dartford MP Jim Dickson
#37
10/03/2024

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 37 - Rosie Duffield quits Labour, school place troubles and special guest Dartford MP Jim Dickson

Key Discussion Points:

1. Accountability of MPs

Examining the expectation for MPs to consult constituents post-election.Debate on triggering by-elections if significant changes occur.

2. Local Political Landscape

Medway's School Place Shortage: Impact of NHS recruitment on educational infrastructure demand.Canterbury's Public Space Management: Planters mistaken for bins leading to public criticism.

3. National Issues

Scrapping Ofsted’s headline ratings sparks debate; Rory Love criticises reduced transparency.

4. Rosie Duffield's Resignation


EP36: Safer school streets, failing park and ride, and special guest Medway council’s Cllr Andrew Lawrence
#36
09/26/2024

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 36 - Safer school streets, failing park and ride, and special guest Medway council’s Cllr Andrew Lawrence 

Key Discussions:

Local Government Reform

Unitary System Proposal: Debate on moving to a county unitary system to eliminate districts and consolidate resources. Discussion includes potential cost savings from reducing CEO/COO/CFO positions.

Medway School Streets Program

Expansion Plans: Overview of the school streets program in Medway aimed at improving safety around schools by restricting car access during peak times. Public consultation is ongoing for adding more schools.

Ca...


EP35: Care controversy in Medway, Shop stripped of licence after assault, is Reform trying to recruit Tory councillors and special guest, the Green Party's Rich Lehmann
#35
09/19/2024

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 35 -  Care controversy in Medway, Shop stripped of licence after assault, is Reform trying to recruit Tory councillors and special guest, the Green Party's Rich Lehmann

Episode Highlights 

Introduction: Welcome to The Kent Politics Podcast, your go-to source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters.Medway’s Care Crisis: Robert Boddy reports that two-thirds of children in care at Medway are from other authorities, primarily due to cheaper accommodation.Dartford Corner Shop Controversy: Daniel Esson discusses a Dartford shop losing its alcohol license after incidents involving illegal worke...