THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

KCC cuts £40k by removing office plants, Medway planning win upheld & UK mulls social media ban

Welcome to the landmark 100th edition of the Kent Politics Podcast, a bite-sized episode bringing you key highlights from around Kent over the past week. Hosted by Nikki White, Senior News Editor at KM Media Group.

• Jerry Clarkson, former leader of Ashford Borough Council, passed away this week.
• Served as leader from 2006 to 2023 and was with London Fire Brigade for three decades.

• Discussion on voter dissatisfaction with Labour and Conservatives leading to increased support for Reform UK.
• Insights from Ben Seyd, University of Kent politics expert.

• Kent County Council plans cost-cutting measures including removing plants across estates saving £40k annually.
• Plans also include transitioning water supplies from bottled to plumbed systems.

• Judicial review confirms Medway Council's lawful decision in planning permission for Chatham Docks' Basin 3 business campus.

• Consultation launched on potential social media restrictions similar to Australia's model with insights from Sojan Joseph MP.

Have your say! Email or send a voice note about topics you'd like discussed: kentpoliticspodcast@kmgroup.co.uk

Join us next week for our first bumper edition featuring special guests. Stay updated via Kent Online and sign up for our newsletter.

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

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THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 99 - Reform's latest Kent members and Budget setting in Medway and KCC

Welcome to the inaugural bite-size edition of the Kent Politics Podcast for 2026, presented by Nikki White, Senior News Editor at KM Media Group. This episode brings you a concise roundup of key political happenings in Kent over the past week.

• Councillor Defections: Three councillors are joining Reform UK from Conservative and Independent backgrounds.
• Notable Figures: Includes Dakota Dibben (Gravesham), Lawrence Ball (Sevenoaks), and Barry Manners (Thanet).

• Draft Budget Published: After delays, KCC's draft budget sees council tax set at 3.99%, below government cap.
• Financial Risks Discussed: Concerns about adult social care costs and SEND provisions highlighted by Councillor Kemkaran’s deputy.

• Funding Settlement Reaction: Medway receives £23m boost but still faces financial strain; EFS likely needed again.

• Thousands remain without water due to ongoing issues with South East Water amid investigations from OFWAT and DWI.

• Focus on water supply issues as MPs demand accountability from South East Water leadership. Lib Dem leader Ed Davey calls for licence revocation during PMQs.

1. Simon Finley discusses KCC budget implications with Nicola Everett of KMFM.
2. Tunbridge Wells MP Mike Martin expresses scepticism towards South East Water's reassurances amidst ongoing outages.

Have your say or pose questions to our panel via email or voice note at kentpoliticspodcast@kmgroup.co.uk.

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

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THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 98 - Traffic fine mistakes, changing face of Kent and special guest, Reform’s Maxwell Harrison

Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, where we delve into local politics and current affairs affecting Kent. In this week's episode...

• Rob explores the issue of potentially thousands of traffic fines being issued erroneously in Medway due to inadequate signage.
• A case study involving Chris Lee successfully appealing against a fine highlights flaws in existing road signs.

• Dan dives deep into intra-British migration statistics from ONS, revealing Canterbury as having the highest inward migration within Kent.
• Dartford stands out for its high proportion of new residents coming from London.

• Nicky discusses Sittingbourne MP Kevin McKenna's advocacy for lifting the two-child benefit cap amidst rising child poverty rates.

• Highlighting community spirit, Moot Brewery gets recognition as one of their beers is served at Westminster thanks to Rochester MP Lauren Edwards' support.

Councillor Harrison shares his journey and political views:

• His transition from Conservative voter to joining Reform UK.
• The challenges faced by Reform UK since taking control over KCC, including factional disputes leading to councillor defections.

Harrison defends Nigel Farage’s leadership while addressing criticisms about reform's stability and potential long-term impact on British politics. He emphasises a grassroots approach despite critics labelling it a personality cult around Farage.

The hosts reflect on 2025’s major events like reform's rise in KCC elections and Labour government struggles. Looking ahead:

1. Possible changes following local elections impacting Keir Starmer’s position.
2. Continued scrutiny on Reform UK's governance capabilities amid internal conflicts.
3. Increased focus on LGR (Local Government Reorganisation) raising public awareness before upcoming ballots.

Exciting developments are planned for 2026 with format changes to the Podcast, introducing bite-sized editions alongside traditional episodes featuring more comprehensive discussions with two guests debating significant monthly stories!

Stay informed by visiting Kent Online or tuning into KMTV every Friday at 5pm for more engaging content around regional politics!

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

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THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 97 - Action over HMOs, Question Time in Kent, and new group formed at KCC by ex Reform members, with special guest Cllr Connie Nolan

Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics podcast, where local democracy reporter Simon Finley is joined by Robert Boddy, Dan Erstin, and Nikki White. This week’s discussion covers a range of pressing topics affecting Kent's political landscape.

• Action on Housing: Medway Council plans to introduce an Article 4 direction to control the proliferation of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). This will require planning permission for HMOs with fewer than six occupants.
• Community Impact: Concerns include parking pressure and antisocial behaviour linked to HMOs.

• Wealden Condition Proposal: The City Council's Green Group pushes for developers to address sewage infrastructure before construction.
• Cabinet Decision: Legal constraints prevent imposing blanket conditions; council awaits water company plans instead.

• New Independent Group Formation: Expelled Reform UK councillors form 'The Independent Group' (TIG), led by Councillor Paul Thomas.
• Political Turmoil: Since May elections, several Reform members have been expelled or defected.

• Immigration Debate Sparks Controversy: A lively debate ensues during BBC’s Question Time focused on immigration issues. MP Mike Tapp criticises fellow panelist Zia Yousef for condescending remarks towards an audience member.

Connie Nolan shares her views as one of only two Labour county councillors left after Reform UK's significant electoral success. She discusses challenges faced by Labour candidates and reflects on Rosie Duffield's departure from the party, expressing disappointment over her timing and its impact on Labour's brand in Canterbury.

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

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THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 96 - Ambulance woes, water crisis and special guest, former MP Kelly Tolhurst

This episode covers a range of topics including challenges faced by the South East Ambulance Service, CCTV malfunctions in Ashford Borough, leadership changes at Kent County Council, and water supply crises impacting Tunbridge Wells.

• Representatives from the South East Ambulance Service were questioned about their response to an undercover documentary revealing resource strains.
• Councillors expressed dissatisfaction with the service's defensive stance post-documentary.

• Reports indicate significant numbers of malfunctioning CCTV cameras are impeding crime evidence collection.
• Concerns over council’s intentions amidst plans to relocate monitoring services.

• Amanda Beer reverses retirement decision; remains Chief Executive until March 2026 amidst ongoing local government reorganisation discussions.

• Thousands left without water due to chemical mishap at treatment works.
• MP Mike Martin actively communicates updates while calling for accountability from South East Water’s CEO.

• Former Rochester and Strood MP discusses life after politics and her continued involvement in local issues like Chatham Docks redevelopment controversy.

Interview Spotlight: Kelly Tolhurst

Kelly reflects on:

• Her transition out of Parliament,
• The impact of losing skilled jobs at Chatham Docks,
• Her perspective on current political dynamics within Medway Council regarding housing developments versus industrial preservation.

Listeners are encouraged to participate by submitting questions or suggesting topics via email or voice note to kentpoliticspodcast@thekmgroup.co.uk.

Stay informed through our weekly newsletter and follow us for more political coverage on KMTV every Friday at 5pm!

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

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THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 95 - Local government reorganisation, councillor’s WhatsApp leak shame, budget response and special guest Cllr Stuart Jeffery

In this week's episode;

Reform UK Controversy:

• Discussion on a Reform councillor's controversial WhatsApp messages.
• Reaction from political figures including Rachel Reeves.

Local Developments in Kent:

• Approval of phases for an 800-home development at Capstone Valley amidst public opposition.
• Insight into the planning committee’s reluctant approval process.

Local Government Reorganisation in Kent:

• Deadline for business case submissions to Whitehall discussed.
• Five proposals on the table with "3A" being the most popular option among councils.

Budget Analysis by Chancellor Rachel Reeves:

• Breakdown of budget highlights including tax changes and NHS funding.
• Critique on economic strategies and their impact on local governance.

Housing Crisis Focused Segment:

• MP Nishaba Khan raises concerns over HMO conversions affecting community fabric in Gillingham.
• Debate around legislation improvements for managing housing developments responsibly.

Interview with Stuart Jeffrey (Green Party):

• Discusses potential outcomes of local government reforms.
• Insight into Green Party policies resonating with younger demographics under new leadership Zach Polanski.

Judicial System Challenges & Jury Trials Debate: – Proposal to limit jury trials due to backlog; implications discussed by panelists Matt Ramsden joins this segment for additional insights.

Listener Engagement Prompt: – Encouragement for audience interaction through questions or topic suggestions via email or voice notes.

"The two things they set out to do—stop the boats and save money—they've completely failed." — Panelist discussing Reform UK's promises

"Climate change is going to be one of the massive things that happens…we have got that eye towards a slightly longer future." — Stuart Jeffrey reflecting on Green Party priorities

• Subscribe to our Politics Briefing newsletter via KentOnline.
• Watch KMTV’s politics show every Friday at 5pm or catch up on demand

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

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THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 94 - Linden Kemkaran and Vince Maple go head to head, libraries and tips face closure, and will the government’s immigration policies work?

In this week's episode;

• Chaos at KCC: Linden addresses accusations of chaos following recent controversial events including leaked videos and councillor expulsions.
• Reform's Financial Strategy: Emphasises savings made under Reform UK's leadership amidst inherited financial challenges.

• Medway’s Care Home Project: Approval for a new 80-bed facility despite opposition concerns about borrowing costs.
• Motion Changes Controversy: Reduction in council meeting motions sparks allegations of anti-democratic practices aimed at smaller parties.

• Discussion on the contentious plans for an undersea cable project affecting Minster Marshes with significant local opposition due to environmental concerns.

• The potential closure of libraries and waste recycling centres as part of budget balancing efforts discussed amid public backlash fears.

• New asylum system reforms announced by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stir division among MPs; implications for border control and community impact debated.

Linden Kemkaran (Reform UK)

• Defends strong leadership style against accusations post "suck it up" video leak.
• Criticises Labour’s handling of immigration policy changes as inadequate amidst rising illegal migration issues.

Vince Maple (Labour)

• Challenges Reform UK's claims regarding chaotic governance at KCC.
• Advocates for Medway's reorganisation plan while addressing internal party processes concerning suspended councillors.

Listeners are encouraged to share their views or questions via email or voice note at KentPoliticsPodcast@thekmgroup.co.uk.

For more political insights throughout the week, visit Kent Online or tune into KMTV every Friday at 5pm. Subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates on regional politics!

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

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THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 93 - Council office may become HMO, is Labour seriously getting rid of Starmer? and special guest former KCC leader Roger Gough

This episode features special guest Roger Gough, former leader of Kent County Council, discussing the challenges facing Reform UK at a local level and potential national implications.

Reform UK's Performance:

• Examining how Reform UK's control over councils is perceived nationally.
• The significance of their performance in flagship areas like Kent.

Kent's Local Government Reorganisation:

• Insights into past reorganisation efforts in the late '90s with Medway's transition to a unitary authority.
• Current plans for further restructuring across the county.

KCC Financial Strategies:

• Possible sale of Invicta House for housing purposes amidst budget constraints.
• Implications of such sales on local communities and governance.

National Labour Party Dynamics:

• Speculation around Keir Starmer’s leadership amid declining approval ratings.
• Potential challengers within Labour party ranks including Wes Streeting and Angela Rayner.

Roger Gough
Former Leader of Kent County Council shares his views on:

• The current administration under Reform UK.
• His experiences post-leadership focusing on advisory roles within local government frameworks.

"It was always going to be difficult… but I don’t think they help themselves by suggesting there were simple answers." – Roger Gough

"Adult social care is always going to be the rising cost that will make it tricky to set a balanced budget." – Panel Discussion

Have questions or topics you want us to explore? Email us at KentPoliticsPodcast@thekmgroup.co.uk or send a voice note!

Stay Connected

Catch up with politics throughout the week via Kent Online or tune into KMTV every Friday at 5pm for more political insights.

For more podcasts from I Am Listening, visit im-listening.co.uk.

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at kmfm.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.