Kent Politics Podcast

Kent Politics Podcast

EP17: Former deputy PM Damien Green, Natalie Elphicke fallout and bus pass price hike anger

In this episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, Simon and the team delve into a variety of pressing political topics, both at the local level in Kent and on the national stage. We cover Dover MP Natalie Elphicke’s party defection, controversial traffic measures in Medway, bus pass cost hikes, and more. Our special guest this week is former Deputy Prime Minister Damien Green.

Kent Politics Podcast

EP16: Local elections, Electoral Calculus polling expert Martin Baxter; and Dover MP Natalie Elphicke defects …

In this weeks episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, Robert, Dan & Paul unpack the recent local elections and their implications for the political landscape. The discussion begins with an overview of how conservative voters have dispersed across various parties, highlighting a significant shift away from traditional patterns. Later in the episode, Simon and Matt interview this weeks special guest, Martin Baxter from Electoral Calculus.

Kent Politics Podcast

EP15: Docks decision, spying on the council and Rwanda / Mike Baldock

In this episode of the Kent Politics podcast, we discuss London’s office-focused development causing housing shortages and price hikes in Kent. We also cover Chatham Dock scheme approvals and the government’s Rwanda migration policy. Host Simon Finlay is joined by reporters Robert Boddy, Dan Esson & Paul Francis for expert analysis on local politics. Also is this week’s show, Simon & Dan interview Councillor Mike Baldock who addresses the need for affordable local housing solutions amidst London overflow pressures.

Kent Politics Podcast

EP14: Bracing for Dover chaos, 12,000 homes for Dartford and potholes row in Medway / Matt Boughton

In this podcast episode, we tackle the complexities of local planning and political challenges in and around. Discussions include the impact of housing developments in Dartford and Medway Council’s budgetary constraints for road repairs. We also explore Dover’s border changes and election speculation in Westminster. The episode highlights the delicate balance between public service expectations and financial sustainability, with insights from council leaders on infrastructure improvements. Paul Francis speaks with Tonbridge & Malling Council Leader Matt Boughton, who gives a personal insight into potential future bids for parliamentary positions, whilst emphasising a commitment to community service.

Kent Politics Podcast

EP13: Big bucks, the Olympics and a public health warning / Cllr Stuart Jeffery

In this episode, Simon and the team discuss outdated voting systems and disparities in health outcomes and the impact of environment and lifestyle on health. High salaries of local officials are debated against financial challenges in government. Preparations for border security during the Paris Olympics and support for asylum-seeking children are also discussed. Special guest, Stuart Jeffrey from the Green Party wraps up by acknowledging listeners’ participation and future political discourse opportunities.

Kent Politics Podcast

EP12 : Medway potholes, a Whitstable town council and the Kent crime commissioner election / Canterbury Council Leader Alan Baldock

In this week’s episode, the focus is on Kent’s local politics and its impact on infrastructure. Discussions include Medway’s pothole issues, Whitstable’s town council rejection, and the competitive police commissioner election. Canterbury City Council leader Alan Baldock speaks about financial struggles and traffic policies in Canterbury.

Kent Politics Podcast

EP11 : Citizens advice cuts, a bridge too far and asylum seeker backlash / Mike Tapp, Labour parliamentary candidate

In this episode, we delve into Kent’s critical issues: the cost of living crisis, service cuts like Citizens Advice in Medway, and housing asylum-seeking children in Sheppey. Faversham Creek bridge restoration woes and Conservative polling declines are also discussed. Special guest Mike Tapp emphasises Labour’s community commitment over single-issue parties and outlines a comprehensive plan to tackle immigration effectively, revitalise jobs locally, challenge companies on worker rights, and ensure readiness for digital border challenges.

Kent Politics Podcast

EP10 : More housing, more traffic and more problems with the Port of Dover / Cllr Kevin Mills

In this episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, we discuss Maidstone’s housing plan for 17,000 homes and the strain on infrastructure. We examine Medway and Swale’s health initiative, Sittingbourne’s traffic woes, and Kent’s potential gridlock due to new travel systems, the effectiveness of migration deterrents like the Rwanda plan is questioned amid domestic underfunding concerns. Simon & Dan speak with Dover District Council leader Cllr Kevin Mills about facing financial challenges with biosecurity checks at the Port.

Kent Politics Podcast

EP9 : Yvette Cooper, Planning Issues and Operation Brock / Jeremy Kite

In this episode, Robert, Dan, Sam & Paul delve into the pressing need for the Low Thames Crossing and frustrations with planning delays. We cover local political issues including housing plans near Canterbury, a community dispute in Ellington, and Yvette Cooper’s visit to Medway. Dartford council leader Jeremy Kite discusses investments in local land safety and the economic impact of repairs at Orchard Theatre. The national political scene is examined with predictions about Conservative Party prospects and the detachment of parties from community needs. Local government financial strains are addressed, highlighting resilience amid austerity measures and emphasising tough decisions to maintain solvency in challenging times.