THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 85 - Kent crime figures, Medway's LGR plan, Sevenoaks housing, and Special Guest Sean Holden

This week, the team dives into the shifting political landscape in Kent and beyond, with a special focus on party turmoil, housing challenges, local government reforms and leadership speculation.

Sevenoaks Housing Surge:
Dan reports on Sevenoaks District Council’s new local plan—housebuilding targets have soared by 63%, pushing annual builds from 700 to over 1,150. With only ~260 homes built per year previously, this marks a dramatic change for residents. Major developments are planned at Peddham Place and Otford Road.

Medway Goes It Alone?
Robert explains Medway Council’s potential solo bid for local government reorganisation after its preferred option wasn’t selected by other Kent leaders. The move could cost up to £874k but aims to reshape council boundaries independently.

Kent Police & Rural Identity Crisis:
Simon reveals that rapid development has blurred rural/urban lines so much that even Kent Police struggle to define “countryside” areas—a sign of how housebuilding is transforming the county.

MP Donation Scrutiny:
Nikki covers Sittingbourne & Sheppey MP Kevin McKenna facing criticism over donations from pro-housing group Homes for Britain amid controversy around major residential projects like Heisted Park (8,400 proposed homes).

Political commentator Sean Holden joins to dissect:

• The unprecedented threat Reform UK poses by attracting right-wing voters.
• Whether Kemi Badenoch can survive as Conservative leader amidst dire polling and internal defections.
• The challenge of reconnecting with traditional Tory values versus moving towards centrism.
• Rising stars within the Conservatives—including Weald of Kent MP Katie Lamb—and reflections on past leadership strategies under Cameron and Johnson.

“People say ‘I haven’t left the party—the party left me.’ That’s what we need to address.” —Sean Holden

The panel discusses growing noise about Sir Keir Starmer's future as Labour leader—with possible contenders like Andy Burnham waiting in the wings—but consensus is it’d be risky for Labour to oust him before key elections next year. Canterbury’s Rosie Duffield voices her hope for change at Labour's top.

Discussion turns practical: Can councils really make more cuts without harming services? Will reformers take tough decisions where others have hesitated?

1. Party Realignment: Both Tories and Labour face existential questions about their identity and voter base.
2. Housing Pressure: Central targets clash with local realities—expect fierce debate over greenbelt land use across Kent.
3. Leadership Uncertainty: From Westminster downwards, no seat seems entirely safe; personality politics loom large ahead of elections.
4. Public Engagement Invited! Got views or questions? Email or send voice notes via kentpoliticspodcast@thekmgroup.co.uk

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