The Kent Politics Podcast

EP12 : Medway potholes, a Whitstable town council and the Kent crime commissioner election / Canterbury Council Leader Alan Baldock

Episode Summary

In this week's episode, the focus is on Kent's local politics and its impact on infrastructure. Discussions include Medway's pothole issues, Whitstable's town council rejection, and the competitive police commissioner election. Canterbury City Council leader Alan Baldock speaks about financial struggles and traffic policies in Canterbury.

Episode Notes

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 12 - Medway potholes, a Whitstable town council and the Kent crime commissioner election / Canterbury Council Leader Alan Baldock

In this episode of the Kent Politics Podcast, we explore a variety of pressing issues affecting both local governance and national political discussions. From pothole problems in Medway to the debate over new town councils and police commissioner elections, Simon and the team provide an insightful commentary on each topic.

Key Points Discussed:

Pothole Crisis in Medway:

• Robert Boddy highlights the severe problem with approximately 2,000 potholes across Medway's roads.
• The council estimates £50 million is needed for repairs but has only been allocated £400k by the government.
• Safety concerns are growing due to worsening road conditions.

Town Council Controversy:

• Dan Esson discusses Whitstable’s rejected proposal for establishing its own town council after public consultation.
• Criticisms include fears of increased bureaucracy and additional financial burdens on residents.

Police & Crime Commissioner Elections:

• Simon Finlay delves into the upcoming election for Kent's Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC).
• Incumbent Matthew Scott faces competition from Labour’s Lenny Rolles and Lib Dem Graham Colley.
• Issues such as low voter turnout could impact election results amid declining Tory popularity at a national level.

Westminster Watch: Paul Francis touches upon party leaders campaigning locally ahead of council elections while also discussing biosecurity checks at Dover port that have sparked controversy over food safety risks.

Interview with Councillor Alan Baldock: Dan Esson interviews Canterbury City Council leader Alan Baldock about coalition challenges, local plan changes including traffic zoning proposals removal, housing development strategies focusing on bus-first policies alongside active travel initiatives.