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:

Solar 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 to previous rejected bids amid local concerns over traffic gridlock and loss of green spaces.

Simon reports that Kent County Council is back in action after May elections:

• Scrutiny Committee now chaired by opposition (Lib Dem/Labour), signalling openness under Reform UK leadership.
• Sale of council artworks initiated under Conservatives expected to raise £45k.

Nikki explains phase two findings:

• Serious failings found nationwide in mortuary oversight after Fuller's crimes went undetected for decades at Maidstone & Tunbridge Wells NHS Trusts.
• Chair Sir Jonathan Michael calls current arrangements “partial” and “ineffective”, urging statutory regulation—government response pending.

Elli details how Kent Online’s campaign reached Parliament:

• Cross-party support among all Kent MPs as well as others nationally pushes government towards fairer blue badge access for those with life-limiting illnesses such as cancer.

At just 23, Oliver shares his journey from Young Conservative activist disillusioned with Tory direction, through standing unsuccessfully last year, to winning big with Reform this May:

• On why he left Tories: "They have essentially betrayed every single one of their voters."
• On savings challenge ahead: Focuses on cutting unnecessary spending like electric vehicle conversions; seeks efficiency rather than slashing services or raiding reserves; admits challenge but remains optimistic about avoiding bankruptcy fears voiced by ex-councillors.
• On unitary authority reforms: Sceptical about rushed reorganisation without proper financial planning—warns residents may suffer if mishandled.

Dan unpacks revelations around thousands admitted via a secret resettlement scheme after MOD data leak put Afghans who worked with British forces at risk:

• At least £6bn cost projected; super-injunction lifted this week exposes scale—and controversy over public accountability persists.

Nigel Farage’s comments spark discussion about crime rates among arrivals—with contributors noting both uncomfortable facts about Afghanistan's social context and dangers of simplistic narratives.

The team agrees only Reform likely to question Britain’s obligations openly—their stance may find traction given public mood around costs vs service cuts elsewhere.

Have questions or want us to cover a topic? Email or send voice notes:
kentpoliticspodcast@kmgroup.co.uk

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