THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST
Episode 31 – Dirty Secrets, Far-right Fizzling and a Village Green, and Swale Independent Richard Palmer
Episode Overview
Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your go-to source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters. In this episode, we delve into recent events in Medway, anti-immigration protests in Dover, and a controversial village green status application near Maidstone.
Key Segments
Anti-Immigration Protest Fizzles Out (Dover)
Dan Esson reports from Dover on an anticipated anti-immigration protest that failed to gather momentum:
- Planned by far-right groups but saw minimal turnout.
- Counter-protest dominated the scene with various activist groups.
- Heavy police presence ensured no major incidents.
Environmental Concerns in Medway River (Medway)
Robert Boddy discusses alarming findings regarding pollution levels in the River Medway:
- Dangerous chemicals like dichlorobenzene and chrysene found.
- Sources include industrial runoff and sewage systems.
- Potential risks to human health and wildlife highlighted.
Village Green Status Controversy (Maidstone)
Simon Finlay explores a public inquiry about protecting Bunyard’s Farm as a village green:
- Campaigners argue it should be preserved for local recreational use.
- Landowners contest claiming alternative uses like haymaking are ongoing. – Decision pending which could prevent future housing developments.
Special Guest: Richard Palmer
Richard Palmer shares his journey from UKIP member to independent councillor focusing on local issues:
Political Transition
- Formerly with UKIP; now part of Swale Independent Alliance due to disillusionment post-Brexit referendum results.
Local Housing Crisis
- Critiques current house-building strategies favouring profit over community needs such as affordable housing or bungalows for elderly residents.
Infrastructure Challenges
- Emphasizes lack of infrastructure support—healthcare, schools—amid rapid housing development leading to community strain.
Personal Background
- Reflects on military service during Northern Ireland conflict; lessons learned about reliance on others and communal effort.
Views on National Issues Affecting Local Communities
- Discusses broader implications of migration policies on local resources and infrastructure challenges faced by communities like those in Swale.
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 with Rob Bailey on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at http://www.kmtv.co.uk
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