THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

EPISODE 104 - Political Shifts, Financial Strategies, and Cultural Initiatives

In this week's episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, Nikki White delves into recent political developments in Kent County Council and local issues affecting Maidstone and Medway. We also discuss cultural initiatives in Thanet.

• Restore Britain Formation: Seven ex-Reform UK councillors join Restore Britain led by Rupert Lowe.
• Political Dynamics: Restore Britain becomes third largest group at KCC; potential to challenge Liberal Democrats for official opposition status.
• Councillor Perspectives: Bill Barrett criticises Restore Britain's right-wing stance.

• Property Sales Strategy: Council sells properties to balance finances; notable sales include Railway Street Industrial Estate and Rainham Shopping Centre.
• Financial Outlook: Measures aim to strengthen financial footing ahead of budget meeting.

• Cozenton Park Issues: E-bikes and e-scooters causing disturbances; Councillor George Perfect addresses community concerns about safety.

• Isle of Culture Bid 2029: MP Polly Billington collaborates with artist Dame Tracey Emin on a bid highlighting Thanet's rich cultural heritage.

• Survey Findings on Violence Against Women and Girls:
  • Over 1,250 participants reveal significant concerns about online abuse and physical violence.
  • Public involvement sought for shaping future actions towards enhanced safety measures.

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 103 - Local Developments, National Scandals & Community Campaigns

In this week's bite-sized episode;

Epstein Files & Cultural Implications: Discussion on the societal issues highlighted by the Epstein files, focusing on women's roles in decision-making and cultural changes needed to prevent exploitation.

Medway Council Redevelopment Plans: A 469-space multi-storey car park in Chatham is set for demolition, pending funding approval. The site will be transformed into housing as part of broader regeneration efforts.

Government SEND Funding Announcement: The UK government has allocated £5 billion to help local councils manage special educational needs deficits. While this move is welcomed, concerns about long-term funding remain.

Arlington House Safety Concerns: Freshwater property firm faces scrutiny over building safety at Arlington House, Margate. Residents may face high costs for necessary refurbishments.

Kent Water Outage Costs Revealed: South East Water's recent outage cost nearly £30 million. Local MPs demand accountability and preventive measures against future disruptions.

Polly Billington (East Thanet MP) discusses the need for more women in leadership roles within public life post-Epstein scandal.

Nishaba Khan (Gillingham and Raynham MP) emphasises stability in government while criticising past missteps involving Peter Mandelson.

Mike Martin (Tunbridge Wells MP) launches a campaign to reduce lorry traffic through Goudhurst village using community-sourced evidence.

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 102 - Navigating Funding Problems and Local Government Challenges

Welcome to this week's bite-sized edition of the Kent Politics Podcast, where we delve into the pressing political issues affecting our local communities. This episode is packed with insights from our dedicated local democracy reporters and a look at key developments in Westminster.

• Council Tax Increase: The decision by Kent County Council (KCC) to raise council tax by only 4% instead of near 5%, potentially missing out on over £10 million, has sparked debate.
• Opposition Views: Critics argue that KCC should maximise local funding before seeking more government support.

• Press Conference Insights: KCC leader Lyndon Kem Karen highlights financial strain due to caring for young adult asylum seekers without adequate government funding.
• Ofsted Report Concerns: Recent downgrades in children's services ratings add pressure on KCC's handling of care leavers.

• Budget Plans Unveiled: Medway Council reveals its draft budget, showing improved financial stability despite ongoing pressures like social care demands and inflation.
• Parking Charge Adjustments: Parking fees will rise slightly as part of efforts to balance finances through increased revenue rather than service cuts.

• Tunbridge Town Council Proposal: Plans for establishing a new town council are set for approval, aiming to ensure continued representation amid potential district abolishments across Kent.

• Westminster Discussions: Gravesham MP Dr. Lauren Sullivan raises concerns about victim safety in court settings; Justice Minister outlines investment plans aimed at better supporting victims and reducing domestic abuse crimes.

Don't miss further updates on these stories throughout the week via Kent Online. Subscribe to our politics briefing newsletter or tune into KMTV’s weekly politics show every Friday at 5pm for more detailed coverage.

For feedback or topic suggestions, reach out via email at kentpoliticspodcast@thekmgroup.co.uk. Thank you for tuning in!

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.