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.

• A deep dive into why Kent missed out on becoming part of the first wave in government’s local reorganisation.
• Former KCC leader Roger Gough shares his thoughts on the future of devolution in Kent following a major setback.

• Analysis of Medway Council’s failed attempt to evict travellers from Wigmore Park & Ride.
• Insights into court decisions protecting traveller communities based on human rights considerations.

• Updates on Folkestone Hive District Council's plans for refurbishing a historically significant town centre building, formerly Debenhams.

• Discussion around New Line Learning Academy's temporary farm closure near Maidstone and its implications for special educational needs students.

• Coverage of Sittingbourne MP Kevin McKenna speaking about necessary reforms to outdated mental health legislation dating back to 1983.

Westminster Watch: Senior news editor Nikki White covers developments at Westminster focusing on mental health reform discussions by county MPs including Dartford representative Jim Dixon advocating early intervention strategies for youth mental health care.

Roger Gough reflects candidly after losing his council seat amid Reform UK's sweeping victory. He discusses challenges faced during his leadership tenure, particularly financial strains exacerbated by national policy choices impacting local governance across social services sectors like adult care and children's services.

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 www.im-listening.co.uk or wherever you listen you your podcasts.

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

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

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, Lyndon Cameron, discusses her plans for KCC following a significant election win. We explore potential changes in local governance and how these might impact residents.

Medway Council Issues: Reporter Rob Body investigates a four-year delay on promised home improvements by social housing provider MHS Homes due to council red tape.

Illegal Employment Fines: Dan Essen covers a hefty fine imposed on a Sheppey restaurant for employing illegal workers. The Home Office's stance is discussed alongside potential licensing repercussions.

Ukrainian Flag Controversy: New KCC leader Linden KemKaran explains her decision to remove the Ukrainian flag from County Hall, sparking criticism from various quarters including Green Party members and Liberal Democrats.

Ellie Hodgson reports on her visit to Parliament advocating for fairer blue badge regulations through the "Blue Badge Battle" campaign aimed at supporting those with temporary mobility issues.

The newly appointed KCC leader shares insights into:

• Her background as a former BBC journalist.
• Transitioning from Conservative politics to Reform UK.
• Plans for improving government efficiency within KCC.

Discussion around Sir Keir Starmer’s recent immigration policy speech compared controversially by some critics to Enoch Powell’s “Rivers of Blood” speech – unpacking rhetoric versus reality in current political narratives.

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 www.im-listening.co.uk or wherever you listen you your podcasts.

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.

• Election Shock: Reform UK's stunning victory at Kent County Council has reshaped the political landscape, ousting long-standing Tory figures.
• New Leadership: As listeners tune in, a new leader for KCC is likely announced. The internal politics of this inexperienced group could lead to interesting developments.

• Parking Permit Woes in Medway: A deep dive into system gaps affecting residents with exemptions facing fines due to council errors.
• Factional Conflicts in Dover District Council: Labour's internal strife threatens their slim majority as defections occur post-disciplinary actions against Councillor Jamie Pout.

• UK-India Trade Deal: Celebrated as a major economic milestone post-Brexit, expected to bolster economies by £4.8 billion annually by 2040 but criticised for potential impacts on industries and visa policies.

Former Kent County Councillor Mike Baldock shares insights on:

• His election loss amidst Reform's surge.
• Concerns about upcoming local government reorganisation plans creating larger unitaries that may dilute community representation.

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 www.im-listening.co.uk or wherever you listen you your podcasts.