The Kent Politics Podcast
Welcome to The Kent Politics Podcast, your go-to source for insightful discussions on local and national political matters.
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Episodes
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EP 138: Danny Dyer’s ‘poo’ petition to Parliament and Nigel Farage pays a visit to Kent in plan to ‘overhaul’ immigration system
Friday, 16 October 2026
Kent Politics Podcast – Show NotesEpisode highlights: • Danny Dyer takes petition to ParliamentDanny Dyer went to Parliament to hand over a petition signed by more than 340,000 people calling for all water companies to be brought back under public control.The actor was joined by Sittingbourne and Sheppey MP Kevin McKenna and the SOS Whitstable co-founder Ed Acteson.The petition argues that privatisation has failed both the public and the environment. • Out-of-hours GP service to move from hospital An out-of-hours GP service will no longer be based at a hospital.MedOCC has moved from Medw...
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EP137: Medway First, Asylum Housing & Eviction Row
Friday, 9 October 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show NotesEpisode Title: Is Medway Ready for Change?Host: Robert BoddyGuests: Daniel Esson, Nikki White, Matt Ramsden, Andrew LawrenceEpisode OverviewIn this episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, host Robert Boddy steps in for usual host Simon Finlay. Joining him are senior news editor Nikki White, senior editor Matt Ramsden and reporter Daniel Esson to discuss pressing issues affecting Medway and surrounding areas.Key Topics Discussed:Dartford MP Jim Dixon's Unusual Case:Nikki White highlights the story of Bob Thwaites whose caravan was bulldozed on Swanscombe Peninsu...
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EP136: Illegal Worker Crackdown, £42m Flood Defences & Russian Threats to Kent
Friday, 2 October 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show NotesEpisode Highlights:Illegal Employment Fines:Three Medway businesses fined a total of £220,000 for employing illegal workers.Businesses include Ocean Hand Car Wash, Fireaway Pizza, and Thaal Indian Kitchen.Joint operations by local councils and agencies to ensure legal trading environments.Flood Defence Project Completion:New £42 million flood defences near Tunbridge now operational.Designed to protect thousands of homes and businesses from climate change-related risks.Features expanded live flood storage area capable of holding around 7.4 million cubic metres...
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EP135: Kent on Alert, New Council Homes & Dyer’s Water Campaign
Friday, 25 September 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show NotesEpisode HighlightsNew Council Homes in Medway: Explore the opening of 81 new council homes across Gillingham and Twiddle, aiming to reduce social rent waiting times. Discover how these developments honour local political figures like Paul Harriot.Housing Targets Across Kent: Dive into the performance of various councils under increased housing targets set by the government. Learn about successes and challenges faced by districts such as Sevenoaks, Maidstone, Dartford, and Dover.Water Pollution Concerns: MP Tony Vaughan discusses water pollution issues affecti...
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EP134: Medway’s £360m Crisis, Kent Honours & George Low Justice
Friday, 18 September 2026
Kent Politics Podcast - Episode Show NotesEpisode Highlights:Budget Woes: Medway Council faces significant financial challenges with a potential £360 million shortfall over the next five years. The council is in discussions with the government for additional support.Honouring Heroes: The Brigade of Gurkhas has been awarded the Freedom of Kent, recognising their distinguished service to the UK. This honour reflects their esteemed presence and contributions.Controversial Comments: Dartford Grammar School for Girls becomes a topic of discussion following comments by MP Rupert Low on ethnic dem...
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EP133: Medway First, Council Chaos & Gravesend Ferry Fight
Friday, 11 September 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show NotesEpisode Highlights:Introduction:Host Nikki White, Senior News Editor with the KM Group, introduces this week's episode filled with political drama in Kent.Medway Political Shake-Up:Councillor Andrew Lawrence resigns from the Conservative Party to form his own party, Medway First.Aims for more local accountability and challenges current political dynamics.Plans to contest future elections despite a halt on North Kent unitary plans.Ferry Service Revival Efforts:Prime Minister supports reinstating Gravesend to Tilbury ferry service.The service was halted due to ...
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EP132: Green Victory, Reform Row & Dover By-Election Shock
Friday, 4 September 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show NotesHosts: Dan Esson, Simon Finlay, Robert BoddyGuest: Tris Osborne (Labour MP for Chatham and Aylesford)Episode Summary:In this episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, hosts Dan Esson, Simon Finlay, and Robert Boddy dive into the latest political happenings across Kent. They discuss a notable district council by-election in Dover that saw an unexpected Green Party victory due to vote splitting among right-wing parties.The team also explores disciplinary issues within Medway Council involving Councillor Chris Spalding's conduct. Later on, they welcome Labour MP Tri...
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EP131: Food Van Fight, Housing Row & Poppy Taxi Debate...
Friday, 28 August 2026
The Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Highlights: Community Support for The Creeping Fig: In Medway, local food van "The Creeping Fig" faces uncertainty due to a new housing development. Owners Sam Macklin and Georgia Rollinson-Slater seek council support after being excluded from future plans. A social media campaign has rallied community backing, prompting Medway Council to arrange discussions. Tributes to Rodney Chambers: Former leader of Medway Council, Rodney Chambers, has passed away at age 83. Known for his significant contributions like the Rochester Riverside regeneration ...
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EP130: Violence Against Women, AI Data Centres & Virgin vs Eurostar
Friday, 21 August 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Highlights: Violence Against Women and Girls: Maidstone Council pledges £250,000 to address violence against women and girls. A community project involving 1,250 participants reveals significant safety concerns. The council is implementing recommendations from a diverse group of 37 residents. AI Data Centre Controversy in Southfleet: Proposal for a 145-acre AI data centre by Clearstone Energy sparks local opposition. Concerns over loss of greenbelt land and high water/electricity consumption. Use of Nationally Significant Infrastructure Proj...
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EP129: Orchard Battle, £42m Overspend, Water Supply & Climate Change
Friday, 14 August 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Highlights: Housing Developments and Water Supply Concerns: Discussion on the challenges of building new housing developments in areas with insufficient water supply. The potential role of Section 106 agreements is explored to ensure developers contribute to necessary infrastructure. Medway Orchard Development Controversy: A campaign reignites against a proposed development of 825 homes on an orchard in Rainham, Medway. The Save Our Orchards group, supported by MP Naushabah Khan, continues its fight due to concerns over traffic and infrastructure i...
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EP128: Galley Hill Road, Hospital Parking Charges, Northfleet Rejection & Firefighters' Protests
Friday, 7 August 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Highlights: Galley Hill Road Closure Saga Significant development on the closure of Galley Hill Road at Swanscombe due to a catastrophic landslip. Local MP Jim Dickson supports Kent County Council's bid for funding from the Government’s Structures Fund, aiming to secure £46 million for bridge construction over the affected site. Medway Maritime Hospital Parking Charges Increased parking charges causing distress among staff and visitors. Staff considering leaving due to financial strain; some have taken additional jobs outside healthcare. Nort...
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EP127: Roger Gough, Naushabah Khan, Reform's rise, and Kent's council shake-up
Friday, 31 July 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Overview: Join hosts Simon Finlay, Dan Esson, and Robert Boddy as they delve into the latest political happenings in Kent and Westminster. This episode covers by-election results, local government reorganisation, leadership changes within the Labour Party, and insightful discussions with key political figures. Key Segments: 1. By-Election Results: Cuxton Hauling & Riverside: Reform wins a historically Conservative seat. Guston Kingsdown & St Margaret’s at Cliff: A three-way contest between Conservatives, Reform, and Restore Britain could splinter ...
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EP126: Kent's political shake-up, four new councils, and the Canterbury AI row
Friday, 24 July 2026
Kent Politics Podcast - Episode ShowNotes Overview Welcome to this week's episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, hosted by Nikki White from the KM Media Group. This episode dives into significant political developments in Kent, including local government restructuring and major projects impacting the region. Key Topics Discussed Local Government Restructuring New Unitary Authorities: Announcement of four new unitary authorities for Kent following a decision by Housing Communities and Local Government Secretary Steve Reid. Impact on Medway Council: Councillor Vince Maple discusses his inte...
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EP125: The legacy of Ann Widdecombe, new rules for Canterbury, and a planning battle won
Friday, 17 July 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Highlights: Tribute to Ann Widdecombe: The podcast opens with a heartfelt tribute to former Kent MP, Ann Widdecombe. Known for her forthrightness and dedication, she served the Maidstone constituency from 1987 to 2010. Her recent passing has sparked numerous tributes highlighting her impact on local politics. Maidstone's Community Impact: Councillor Stuart Jeffrey reflects on Ann's significant role in the community, noting her approachable nature and willingness to engage in discussions despite differing opinions. Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSP...
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EP124: A decades-old sewage battle, what next for Farage, and bionic peer back in the limelight
Friday, 10 July 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Welcome to the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, where we delve into this week's pressing political issues in Kent. Hosted by Nicky White, Senior News Editor at Cayenne Media Group. Episode Highlights: 1. Nigel Farage's Bold Move Discussion on Nigel Farage’s strategic move calling a by-election in Clacton. Analysis of potential impacts on UK politics and Reform UK's standing. 2. Kingswear Gardens Sewage Saga Update on Kingswear Gardens residents battling sewage overflows for nearly two decades. Heru Esesimba's relentless efforts lead to pos...
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EP123: Rare Political Unity, Rural Post Offices and Kent's Biggest Stories
Friday, 3 July 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Title: The Plight of Rural Post Offices and Council Tax Changes in Medway Host: Dan Esson (standing in for Nikki White) Episode Overview In this week's episode, we delve into the pressing political issues affecting Kent. From rural post office closures to council tax rule changes in Medway, join us as we explore how local councils are responding to these challenges. Key Segments: Medway's Council Tax Rule Change Issue at Hand: Medway Council has amended its council tax rules following a High Court judgment against Three Rivers District Council. Re...
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EP122: Brexit 10 Years On, Lessons Learned and What's Next for Britain
Friday, 26 June 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Overview This episode delves into the seismic impact of Brexit on British politics, reflecting on the decade since the pivotal 2016 referendum. The discussion covers political divisions within the Conservative Party, turmoil during negotiations, and ongoing ramifications for UK governance. Key Topics Discussed Brexit Referendum Retrospective: Recollections from Simon Finlay and Dan Esson about campaign dynamics. Public misconceptions and reaction to the unexpected Leave victory. Political Fallout: Disunity within major parties post-referendum. ...
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EP121: Political Turmoil in Medway, Social Media Bans and the End-of-Life Debate
Friday, 19 June 2026
Kent Politics Podcast: Episode Highlights Host: Nikki White Key Topics: Medway Reform Group Turmoil Deputy Leader Robbie Lammas exits the party. Criticises Reform for being "unserious" and plagued by internal strife. Initially defected from Tories post-2024 elections but now regrets it. Plans to sit as an independent with a potential return to Conservatives. Faversham's Radical Right Movement Rise of 'Raise the Colours' movement in Faversham. Protests against asylum seekers housing escalate tensions. Disruption during Faversham Town Council meeting on sanctuary status. Social Med...
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EP 120: The Future of Kent Councils, Housing Concerns and a 43-Year Mystery
Friday, 12 June 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Overview: Welcome to the latest edition of the Kent Politics Podcast, brought to you by KM Media Group. Join Nikki White, Senior News Editor, as she delves into pressing political developments across Kent. Key Topics Discussed: Local Government Reorganisation in Kent: Medway Council has allocated £7 million for its transition into new councils by 2028. Breakdown of funds and their intended uses within Medway and contributions from other councils like Dartford, Sevenoaks, and Folkestone & Hythe. Awaiting government's decision on the structure of n...
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EP 119: Fire Concerns, Water Outrage and Planning Battles
Friday, 5 June 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Highlights: South East Water Accountability Discussion on the need for government intervention to hold South East Water accountable due to repeated failures in providing reliable water supply. Canterbury City Council Leader Alan Baldock and Maidstone Council leader Stuart Jeffrey express concerns, suggesting nationalisation as a potential solution. Medway Fire Concerns Ongoing issues with fires at the former St. John Fisher School building in Chatham prompt calls from Councillor Harinda Mahil for developer action or demolition. Nine fires sinc...
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EP 118: Tony Vaughan on Labour pressure, NHS cost cutting and Dickens controversy
Friday, 29 May 2026
Kent Politics Podcast ShowNotes Episode Overview: Join Simon Finley, Dan Essen, Robert Body, and Nikki White for a comprehensive discussion on the latest political happenings in Kent. This episode features an insightful interview with Tony Vaughan, Labour MP for Folkestone and Hythe. Key Topics: 1. Medway Council & Charles Dickens Controversy Medway Council's guidance to staff about addressing outdated views of Charles Dickens. Public reaction from Rochester residents and historians. Discussion on historical context versus modern sensibilities. 2. NHS Staffing Challenges East Kent Ho...
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EP 117: High street parking pressure, election strategy shifts and hospital cost cutting
Friday, 22 May 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Highlights: Chatham Parking Charges Impact: Local traders express concerns over increased parking fees in Chatham, leading to a decline in business as customers opt for free parking alternatives like Hempstead Valley and Blue Water. Business owners urge the council for reconsideration. Liberal Democrats' Early Candidate Selection: The Lib Dems are strategically selecting candidates three years ahead of the general election, focusing on key seats such as Sevenoaks and Maidstone & Malling. They aim to gain ground against Tory strongholds by capitalisin...
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EP 116: Leadership pressure on Kier, Tunbridge Wells shifts and water outage anger
Friday, 15 May 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Highlights: Political Skills & Leadership: Discusses the essential skills needed for a Prime Minister, including coalition building and effective communication. Critiques current leadership on these fronts. Tunbridge Wells Local Elections: Liberal Democrats successfully defend seats, strengthening their hold over Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. Future changes anticipated with the potential move to a unitary council in 2028. Tribute to Councillor Phil Filmer: Reflects on the life and service of Councillor Phil Filmer from Medway, highlightin...
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EP 115: Coalition collapse, hospital hygiene fears and South East Water under scrutiny
Friday, 8 May 2026
Kent Politics Podcast: Episode Rundown Welcome back to the Kent Politics Podcast, where we delve into the latest political developments across Kent. Hosted by Nicky White from KM Media Group, this episode covers a dramatic week in local politics and pressing issues affecting our communities. Key Topics Discussed: Hospital Hygiene Concerns Reports have surfaced regarding hygiene issues at Darrent Valley Hospital in Dartford due to water supply problems. MP Jim Dixon discusses constituent concerns over inadequate washing facilities and bottled water distribution amid an internal fault caus...
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EP 114: Kent’s changing political map, Medway’s challenges and campaign strategies with Reform UK & Green Party voices
Friday, 1 May 2026
Kent Politics Podcast: Episode Recap Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast! Join us for an insightful discussion on the latest political developments in Kent, featuring local democracy reporter Dan Essen and Medway Council enthusiast Robert Body. This episode dives deep into upcoming elections, council dynamics, and more. Key Topics Discussed: Election Insights: Tunbridge Wells Elections: Discover why this is the last election under the current model and how boundary changes have influenced recent outcomes. Political Shifts: Explore Tunbridge Wells' transition from a Conservative strongho...
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EP 113: Kent’s high number of accidental deaths, bomb ships off the coast and a charity’s struggle with funding cuts
Friday, 24 April 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Host: Nicky White, Senior News Editor with KM Media GroupPodcast Episode Date: 24.04.26 Episode Overview Join us for a comprehensive roundup of the latest political happenings in Kent. This episode delves into significant local elections, controversial council decisions, and ongoing community debates. Key Segments: Green Party's Victory in Cliftonville Rob Yates triumphs over Reform UK's Mark Ratigan by 301 votes. The Green Party's focus on empathy and unity resonated with voters disillusioned by divisive politics. Discussion on tactical voting trends fa...
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EP 112: Success for the Green Party in KCC By-Election, More School Streets Problems, and Water Boss Gives Up His Bonus
Friday, 17 April 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Host: Nicky White, Senior News Editor with KM Media GroupPodcast Episode Date: 16.04.26 Episode Overview Join us for a comprehensive roundup of the latest political happenings in Kent. This episode delves into significant local elections, controversial council decisions, and ongoing community debates. Key Segments: Green Party's Victory in Cliftonville Rob Yates triumphs over Reform UK's Marc Rattigan by 301 votes. The Green Party's focus on empathy and unity resonated with voters disillusioned by divisive politics. Discussion on tactical voting trends f...
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EP 111: Housebuilding targets, payments to improve our services - plus news on fluffy bunnies
Friday, 10 April 2026
Kent Politics Podcast - Episode Highlights Welcome to the latest episode of The Kent Politics Podcast, where we delve into pressing local issues and political developments across Kent. Hosted by Nicky White, Senior News Editor at KM Media Group, this episode covers a range of intriguing topics. Key Topics Discussed: 1. Wild Rabbit Virus Outbreak Former councillor Sean Holden raises concerns about a new strain of RHD2 virus affecting wild rabbits in rural Kent. The disease is highly fatal, with a mortality rate of 90%, posing significant risks to both wild and domestic rabbit populations....
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EP 110: The rising cost of waging war on fly-tipping, plans for more homes and how to spend £60m
Friday, 3 April 2026
Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes Episode Overview Welcome to the latest episode of The Kent Politics Podcast. Join Nikki White, Senior News Editor with KM Media Group, as we delve into recent political developments across Kent. Key Topics Discussed Government Investment in Twiddle and Gillingham Labour's plans bring £20 million government funding for neighbourhood development. Additional funds aimed at enhancing children's playgrounds. Fly Tipping Concerns in Kent A report by Kent County Council reveals alarming increases in fly tipping incidents over the past decade. Maidstone saw r...
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109: Council Walkout, Security Measures in Swale & a heated debate in the Studio
Friday, 27 March 2026
THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST Episode 109 - 109: Council Walkout, Security Measures in Swale & a heated debate in the Studio Join us this week on the Kent Politics Podcast as we delve into a series of heated discussions and local political controversies. Hosted by Rob, with insights from Simon and Dan, this episode unpacks the latest happenings in Medway, Swale, and beyond. Key Topics Discussed: 1. Kent County Council Walkout A dramatic walkout occurred at a council meeting over a motion to declare an illegal migration emergency. Reform UK faced opposition due to concerns about electoral adv...
