The Kent Politics Podcast

EP137: Medway First, Asylum Housing & Eviction Row

Episode Summary

Is Medway on the brink of political transformation? Discover how local politics is shaking up in this episode. Join host Robert Boddy and his team as they delve into pressing issues affecting Kent, from a controversial eviction to asylum seeker housing challenges. The spotlight turns to Andrew Lawrence, a former Conservative now spearheading the new 'Medway First' party, advocating for local solutions over national politics. Key insights from this episode: - A unique legal battle over land rights involving an elderly resident's demolished home. - The impact of Article 4 directions on housing asylum seekers in Chatham. - Andrew Lawrence’s bold vision for Medway’s future with 'Medway First'.

Episode Notes

Kent Politics Podcast Show Notes

Episode Title: Is Medway Ready for Change?

Host: Robert Boddy
Guests: Daniel Esson, Nikki White, Matt Ramsden, Andrew Lawrence

Episode Overview

In 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 Peninsula.
  • Legal complications around adverse possession rights and support from local MP Jim Dixon.
• HMOs and Asylum Seekers:
  • Daniel Esson delves into plans by the Home Office to house asylum seekers in Walderslade.
  • The debate over HMO permissions leading to an Article Four direction vote by Tunbridge council members.
• Medway Commercial Group Fraud Investigation:
  • Matt Ramsden shares updates on a long-running investigation shelved by police after years of inquiry.
  • Medway Council’s decision to report Kent Police to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

Special Guest Interview:

• Andrew Lawrence – Founder of 'Medway First':
  • A lifelong Conservative who left the party to focus on local issues through his new political initiative.
  • Discussion about why he believes established parties have failed Medway over recent decades.
  • Insights into 'Medway First' policies aimed at addressing civic pride, financial management, and inward investment.

Notable Quotes:

"Has anything got better over the last ten or fifteen years? There is this creeping running down of Medway." – Andrew Lawrence

"I'm focusing on Medway's problems… Reform are not the answer." – Andrew Lawrence

Listener Engagement:

Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts or suggest topics via email at kentpoliticspodcast.com.

Additional Resources:

• Visit Kent Online for more political stories throughout the week.
• Tune into KMTV’s politics show every Friday at 5 PM or watch it online at kmtv.co.uk.