THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST
Episode 34 – Disabled boy let down by council, controversial homes plan and A228 road woes. Special guest is Lib Dem councillor Richard Streatfeild
Welcome to The Kent Politics Podcast, your go-to source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters. In this episode, Simon, Robert & Dan dive into the critical issues affecting Kent, including financial challenges, local governance decisions, and community stories.
Key Topics Covered:
– Financial Crisis in Local Government
This year, due to increased demographic pressures, there’s a need to find £80 million worth of savings. The county is teetering close to bankruptcy.
– Medway Council Controversy
A story about Thomas, an 11-year-old boy with special needs who was denied funding for a new walker by Medway Council despite recommendations from his physio. Community fundraising efforts successfully raised the required £4,000 within 24 hours after the council’s refusal.
– Major Housing Development in Thanet
Discussion around a controversial housing development project proposing 1600 homes in Birchington. Despite extensive debate over two evenings at Thanet District Council’s planning committee meetings, no final decision was made due to concerns about inadequate affordable housing provisions.
– Road Safety Improvements in South Mason
Upcoming plans funded through developer contributions aim to widen sections of A228 at Merriworth and install traffic lights at dangerous junctions following years of lobbying by local councillors Sarah Hudson and Matt Boughton.
Interview with Richard Streatfeild
– Background & Career Journey:
Richard shares insights from his varied career which includes military service in Bosnia, Kosovo, Northern Ireland, Afghanistan before transitioning into politics motivated by community service values instilled by his grandmother.
– Political Insights:
1. **Lib Dem Strategy Post-General Election Success:**
Focused resource allocation led to significant wins; now aiming for impactful scrutiny roles in Parliament.
2. **Challenges Facing Sevenoaks Constituency:**
Importance of having strong local representation versus career-focused politicians like Laura Trott (Conservative).
3. **Impact of ULEZ Policy on Labour Popularity:**
Significant backlash against Labour policies costing families financially has influenced voter sentiment negatively towards them especially among working-class voters in Swanley area.
4. **Future Prospects & Coalition Dynamics:**
Anticipating competition from multiple parties including Reform UK; focus remains on championing local issues effectively even if forming part of coalition government becomes necessary post-election results next May.
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
Don’t forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at http://www.im-listening.co.uk or wherever you listen you your podcasts.