The Kent Politics Podcast
Welcome to The Kent Politics Podcast, your go-to source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters. Join us as we take a deep dive into local government across the county, find out what the key decision makers have to say, what your money is being spent on and how the party’s policies could affect how we live. Stay tuned for our regular feature, ‘Westminster Watch', where we dissect the latest developments and decisions shaping the political landscape in the heart of the UK’s capital. Engage with us as we delve into the issues that matter to you and explore the dynamic world of politics from a Kent perspective.
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Episodes
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EP80: Freedom of speech, sewage and special guest Cllr Robbie Lammas
Friday, 15 August 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST Episode 80 - Freedom of speech, sewage and special guest Cllr Robbie Lammas Episode Highlights:Morality in Politics: The panel opens with a reflection on the importance of individual morality and moral judgement in political life, arguing that no amount of regulation can replace personal ethics.Council Crackdown on Foul Language: Thanet Council’s controversial plans to fine residents for abusive language via Public Spaces Protection Orders face legal challenges from free speech campaigners. Lord Toby Young and the Free Speech Union are preparing for a court battle ...
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EP79: 100 days of Reform, Rachel Reeves, and a pollster's view with special guest Martin Baxter
Friday, 8 August 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST Episode 79 - 100 days of Reform, Rachel Reeves, and a pollster's view with special guest Martin Baxter This week on the Kent Politics Podcast:Reform UK's Rise in Kent: We mark 100 days since Reform UK took control of Kent County Council. What’s changed? Who’s winning—and at what cost?Local Regeneration Update: Dan revisits Herne Bay's long-awaited redevelopment—why has it stalled for years and is there light at the end of the tunnel?Chancellor Visits Medway: Rachel Reeves tours a revamped holiday park as millions are invested locally. What does this mean for jobs...
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EP78: Former Tory MP Adam Holloway explains why he has joined Nigel Farage's Reform UK
Wednesday, 30 July 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST Episode 78 - Former Tory MP Adam Holloway explains why he has joined Nigel Farage's Reform UK Episode Overview This week on the Kent Politics Podcast, we bring you a packed episode featuring breaking political shifts, local activism, and international intrigue—all from a distinctly Kent perspective.Adam Holloway, former Gravesham MP, joins us to discuss his dramatic move from the Conservatives to Reform UK.We meet a 20-year-old Dover resident who claims presidency over an unrecognised Balkan micronation.Local housing battles heat up in Medway with Labour MPs at odd...
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EP77: Kent tips saved, Dover protests, Medway roadwork hell and special guest Cllr Antony Hook
Friday, 25 July 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST Episode 77 - Kent tips saved, Dover protests, Medway roadwork hell and special guest Cllr Antony Hook This week on the Kent Politics Podcast, we dive into a tumultuous period for local politics. From anti-immigration protests in Dover to public anger over water company bonuses and the ongoing shake-up at County Hall, our panel unpacks the stories shaping life across Kent. Special guest Antony Hook, newly appointed KCC opposition leader (Liberal Democrats), joins us to share insights on Reform UK's rise and what lies ahead for local government.Key Topics & Highlight...
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EP76: More homes in Medway, KCC committees up and running, report into mortuary monster David Fuller, and special guest Cllr Oliver Bradshaw
Friday, 18 July 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST Episode 76 - More homes in Medway, KCC committees up and running, report into mortuary monster David Fuller, and special guest Cllr Oliver Bradshaw This week on the Kent Politics Podcast:1. Local Planning & DevelopmentSolar Farm near Canterbury:Dan revisits plans for an 80-football-pitch-sized solar farm at Tyler Hill—approved quickly due to its sub-50MW capacity. Expected to power up to 15,000 homes by 2026.Medway Housing Expansion:Rob covers new proposals for 750 homes off Pump Lane, Rainham. Strict conditions include schools and healthcare facilities—a response ...
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EP75: Farage in Kent, public safety in Dover, and special guest, expelled Labour councillor Jamie Pout.
Friday, 11 July 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCASTEpisode 75 - Farage in Kent, public safety in Dover, and special guest ,expelled Labour councillor Jamie Pout.Episode Overview:This week’s episode of The Kent Politics Podcast dives deep into the latest local government developments and simmering tensions within the Labour Party. Special guest Jamie Pout, former Deputy Leader of Dover District Council, opens up about his high-profile expulsion from Labour and the factional strife dividing the party. The panel also unpacks a busy week in Kent politics—from Nigel Farage’s visit to County Hall to contentious public ser...
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EP74: Reform's debut, Kent's not working and making plans for Medway, special guest Damian Green
Friday, 4 July 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST Episode 74 - Reform's debut, Kent's not working and making plans for Medway, special guest Damian Green This episode features a critical analysis of local governance issues, including the unveiling of Medway Council’s local plan and Reform UK’s debut in Kent County Council. We also welcome former Ashford MP Damian Green to reflect on his life after Westminster.Key Segments:Medway's Controversial Local Plan:Medway Council’s 15-year housing and infrastructure strategy.Debate surrounding Chatham Docks’ residential development plans.Public consultation details followin...
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EP73: Rachel Reeves, KCC denied extension and special guest Tory group leader Harry Rayner
Friday, 27 June 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST Episode 73 - Rachel Reeves, KCC denied extension and special guest Tory group leader Harry Rayner Welcome to 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 our community, from funding challenges to policy impacts. Episode Highlights: Government Funding Opportunities: Discussion on possible government funding announcements expected between now and December.The financial expectations for the incoming administration's budget in 2026-27, with a focus on find...
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EP72: Fake elephants, Doge claims questioned, and special guest Reform's Cllr Maxwell Harrison
Friday, 20 June 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST Episode 72 - Fake elephants, Doge claims questioned, and special guest Reform's Cllr Maxwell Harrison Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your premier source for in-depth discussions on both local and national political issues. This episode delves into the intricacies of governance across Kent County, featuring insights from key decision-makers.Episode HighlightsLocal Governance and Community IssuesGiant Fibreglass Elephant Saga: Rob discusses Medway Council's removal of an 8-foot elephant slide due to safety concerns, highlighting community reactions.KCC Financi...
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EP71: More houses planned, fears over disorder, campaign success and special guest Stuart Tranter
Friday, 13 June 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST Episode 71 - More houses planned, fears over disorder, campaign success and special guest Stuart Tranter Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide to local and national political matters affecting Kent. Episode Highlights:Local Government InsightsChatham Docks: Discussed as an example of local government challenges.Medway Housing Plans: Rob reports on public consultations about 350 new homes proposed for All Hallows village amidst infrastructure concerns.Antisocial Behaviour in Herne BayDan covers efforts led by Councillor Liz...
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EP70: DOGE arrives at KCC, another restaurant busted for immigration offences and special guest Matthew Scott
Friday, 6 June 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCASTEpisode 70 - DOGE arrives at KCC, another restaurant busted for immigration offences and special guest Matthew Scott This week’s episode delves into recent developments across Kent County Council with a focus on governance efficiency, election costs, immigration enforcement challenges, and major housing development proposals. Key Segments: Election Synchronisation Debate: Discussion around holding PCC elections simultaneously with county elections to reduce costs and increase voter turnout.Insights from Matthew Scott regarding his role as PCC amidst low public recog...
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EP69: Medway's Local Plan, waste dump crisis, estate management anger, and special guest County Councillor Stuart Heaver
Friday, 30 May 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST Episode 69 - Medway's Local Plan, waste dump crisis, estate management anger, and special guest, County Councillor Stuart Heaver The episode explores Kent's political landscape, focusing on Reform UK's rise in the County Council. Key topics include Medway’s Local Plan delays, residents challenging estate management in Ebbsfleet, and illegal fly-tipping likened to "county lines" crime. The podcast features Westminster Watch for national politics and an interview with Green Councillor Stuart Heaver.Episode Highlights:Introduction: Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast...
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EP68: Council's botched traveller eviction, school farm closure fears and special guest, former KCC leader Roger Gough
Monday, 26 May 2025
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.Episode Highlights:Local Government & DevolutionA deep dive into why Kent missed out on becoming part of the first wave in government’s local reorganisation.Fo...
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EP67: Red tape woes, illegal workers and special guest, KCC leader Linden Kemkaran
Friday, 16 May 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST Episode 67 - Red tape woes, illegal workers and special guest, KCC leader Linden Kemkaran 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, Linden Kemkaran, discusses her plans for KCC following a significant election win. We explore potential changes in local governance and how these might impact residents...
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EP66: KCC under new leadership, Labour bother in Dover and special guest Cllr Mike Baldock
Friday, 9 May 2025
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.Episode Highlights:Reform UK Takes ControlElection Shock: Reform UK's stunning victory at Kent County Council has reshaped the political landscape, ousting long-standing Tory figures.New Lea...
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EP65: Kent goes to the polls, disorder in Dover, and Labour lets suspended councillors back in. Plus special guest Martin Baxter of Electoral Calculus
Friday, 2 May 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST Episode 65 - Kent goes to the polls, disorder in Dover, and Labour lets suspended councillors back in. Plus special guest Martin Baxter of Electoral Calculus Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your go-to source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters. This episode delves into the complexities of predicting election outcomes amidst a landscape filled with marginal seats and dynamic party politics.Key SegmentsLocal Election Insights: Explore the latest developments in Medway, including Labour councillors' reinstatement after suspension...
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EP64: Cost of democracy, Kemi visits again, and protests planned. Plus special guest, Cllr Teresa Murray
Friday, 25 April 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCASTEpisode 64 - Cost of democracy, Kemi visits again, and protests planned. Plus special guest, Cllr Teresa MurrayWelcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide to local and national political discussions with a focus on Kent.Episode Highlights:By-Election Costs in MedwayRobert Boddy reports on February's by-elections in Medway.Discover how £60,000 was spent for only 4,225 votes cast from an electorate of over 21,000.The cost per vote stands at £14.30; insights into voter apathy are explored.Upcoming Protest in DoverDan Esson previews ...
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EP63: Investigation reveals £20m of unspent funds, Premier Inn homes latest and special Labour's Roger Truelove
Friday, 18 April 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCASTEpisode 63 - Investigation reveals £20m of unspent funds, Premier Inn homes latest and special guest Labour's Roger TrueloveWelcome to another engaging episode of the Kent Politics Podcast. Here's a rundown of what's covered:Local Politics and Funding DiscussionsIntroduction to Section 106 Payments: Dan opens up about his substantial investigation into Section 106 payments. These are contributions from developers intended to fund community projects like education and health. Surprisingly, Dan reveals through FOI requests that a staggering £20 million collected by Me...
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EP62: Spiky public meeting, council contractor goes under, and special guest Martin Baxter from Electoral Calculus
Friday, 11 April 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCASTEpisode 62 - Spiky public meeting, council contractor goes under, and special guest Martin Baxter from Electoral ReformWelcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters.This week on the Kent Politics Podcast, we delve into the fluid and dynamic landscape of British politics with guest Martin Baxter, CEO of Electoral Calculus. Simon & The Team provide the usual insights into local government issues, upcoming elections, and recent polling data suggesting potential shifts in political control ...
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EP61: Farage, flat blocks, and park and ride flak, with special guest Nigel Farage
Friday, 4 April 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCASTEpisode 61 - Farage, flat blocks, and park and ride flak, with special guest Nigel FarageWelcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters. On this week's episode;Episode Highlights:Medway's Housing Initiative: Robert Boddy discusses Medway Council’s ambitious £42 million plan to purchase properties for temporary accommodation, aiming to counter rising private rental costs. The council is currently negotiating the acquisition of two blocks totaling 130 units.Canterbury's Park and Ride Dilem...
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EP60: Fire and rehire, university strikes, road plans, and special guest Alan Jarrett
Friday, 28 March 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCASTEpisode 60 - Fire and rehire, university strikes, road plans, and special guest Alan JarrettWelcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide for insightful discussions on both local and national political matters. Join Simon and the team as they explore the intricate workings of local government across Kent.In This Episode:Medway Council Controversy: Discover why Medway Council is under fire for alleged "fire and rehire" tactics affecting swimming instructors. Learn about the council's restructuring efforts and hear from those impacted by these changes.Uni...
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EP59: Town misses out on £6m health cash, predictions for future of Kent's Councils, and Special Guest - Reform's William Fotheringham-Bray
Friday, 21 March 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCASTEpisode 59 - Town misses out on £6m health cash, predictions for future of Kent's Councils, and Special Guest - Reform's William Fotheringham-BrayThe latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast delves into pressing issues in Kent, including a funding reallocation controversy in Medway, proposed council restructures, roadwork disruptions, and a political incident involving Reform UK's William Fotheringham Bray. It also touches on potential benefit system cuts and encourages listeners to stay informed via various platforms.Health Funding Controversy in Medway:Strood r...
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EP58: Two-year road closure rumbles on, Innovation Park finally gets tenant, and special guest Labour's Cllr Alister Brady
Friday, 14 March 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCASTEpisode 58 - Two-year road closure rumbles on, Innovation Park finally gets tenant, and special guest Labour's Cllr Alister Brady In this week's episode;Key Segments:1. Innovation Park Medway UpdateDiscussion Lead: Robert BoddyHighlights:BAE Systems becomes the first tenant at Innovation Park Medway.The park is restructured with industrial focus and residential care facilities.A strategic move by Labour Cabinet following previous administration oversights.2. Kent Roadworks ChaosDiscussion Lead: Simon FinleyInsights:Interview with Neil Baker (Highways Chief) reveals ...
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EP57: Innovation Park scaled back, traffic chaos in Hawkhurst, and Medway hospital gets bad CQC rating - this week's special guest is Gary Cooke
Friday, 7 March 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCASTEpisode 57 - Innovation Park scaled back, traffic chaos in Hawkhurst, and Medway Hospital gets bad CQC rating. This week's special guest is Gary Cooke.Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide to local and national political affairs. Key Topics Discussed This Week:Medway's Innovation ParkUpdate: Plans revived for a business park near Rochester Airport.Changes: Shift from office spaces to industrial use; addition of care home facilities.Reactions: Mixed responses from former council leaders regarding site utilisation.Traffic Cha...
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EP56: Balancing the books, 40-year road scandal and special guest Rochester and Strood MP Lauren Edwards
Friday, 28 February 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCASTEpisode 56 - Balancing the books, 40-year road scandal and special guest Rochester and Strood MP Lauren EdwardsWelcome to another episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide to local and national political discussions. In this episode, we delve into key financial strategies at Medway Council, a long-awaited road project in Kent, and insights from Rochester and Strood MP Lauren Edwards.Key Segments:Medway Council's Financial Strategies:Overview: Medway Council is focusing on balancing its books by selling non-operational properties valued up to £34 mil...
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EP55: Redevelopments, Budgets and Henry Bolton
Friday, 21 February 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCASTEpisode 55 - Redevelopments, Budgets and Henry BoltonWelcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide for engaging discussions on both local and national political landscapes. This episode delves into key issues affecting Kent, from council budget challenges to redevelopment plans and contentious planning inquiries.Key SegmentsMedway Council's Financial ChallengesSean Delaney discusses Medway Labour's financial hurdles.The council is optimistic about receiving £18.5 million government funding but faces setbacks with rejected tax increases.Public services f...
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EP54: Reform make progress, Tories receive good news and special guest Cllr Sean Holden
Friday, 14 February 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST Episode 54 - Reform make progress, Tories receive good news and special guest Cllr Sean Holden In this week's Episode;Local Election Dynamics:Labour's mixed results in Medway with Reform UK gaining ground.The impact of low voter turnout on election outcomes.Current council composition post-elections and potential shifts in power dynamics.Westminster Watch:Controversial discussions surrounding small boats crossing the Channel.Labour's new Border Security Asylum and Immigration Bill versus Conservative policies.Upcoming Elections & Predictions:Insights into private p...
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EP53: Devolution blow, MP comeback and special guest Cllr Ian Chittenden
Friday, 7 February 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST Episode 53 - Devolution blow, MP comeback and special guest Cllr Ian ChittendenWelcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your definitive guide to local and national political discussions. This episode delves into the complexities of local government finance, devolution developments in Kent and Medway, upcoming council elections, and rural crime issues.Key SegmentsLocal Government Finance CrisisMedway Council Budget Woes: Robert Boddy discusses Medway's financial struggles with a predicted £8 million overspend.Potential Bankruptcy Risks: The looming threat of a Section ...
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EP52: Three Dodgy Dealers, One Dodgy Copper and a City for Medway, featuring Sir Paul Carter
Friday, 31 January 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST Episode 52 - Three Dodgy Dealers, One Dodgy Copper and a City for Medway, featuring Sir Paul Carter On this week's episode: Episode Highlights:Empowering Entrepreneurs: The host discusses the importance of supporting entrepreneurs to boost the economy.Local Government Insights: Dive into Medway's bid for city status, police misconduct hearings, and a car mileage fraud case in Kent.Lower Thames Crossing Update: Learn about recent government backing and its implications on local congestion.Key Segments:Medway City Status BidMedway Council seeks city status as a last ...
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EP51: Taxpayer millions, Medway's Big Brother and MPs raised voices and special guest John Britt
Friday, 24 January 2025
THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST Episode 51 - Taxpayer millions, Medway's Big Brother and MPs raised voices and special guest John Britt Join us as we delve into pressing issues affecting local communities, from uncollected fines in Medway to a controversial housing development in Lenham. With special guest John Britt, Parish Council Chairman and campaign leader against a massive housing project, we explore the complexities of local government decisions and their impact on taxpayers.Key Discussions: Medway's Fine Collection Dilemma Robert Boddy delves into Medway Council’s new schemes like school ...
