The Kent Politics Podcast

EP58: Two-year road closure rumbles on, Innovation Park finally gets tenant, and special guest Labour's Cllr Alister Brady

Episode Summary

Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your destination for in-depth discussions on local and national political issues. This episode dives into significant developments across Kent, including Innovation Park Medway's new tenant, ongoing roadwork frustrations, and a major road closure due to a landslide. We also explore devolution efforts in Kent with insights from Labour's County Councillor for Canterbury, Alister Brady.

Episode Notes

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 58 - Two-year road closure rumbles on, Innovation Park finally gets tenant, and special guest Labour's Cllr Alister Brady

In this week's episode;

Key Segments:

1. Innovation Park Medway Update

• Discussion Lead: Robert Boddy
• Highlights:
  • BAE Systems becomes the first tenant at Innovation Park Medway.
  • The park is restructured with industrial focus and residential care facilities.
  • A strategic move by Labour Cabinet following previous administration oversights.

2. Kent Roadworks Chaos

• Discussion Lead: Simon Finley
• Insights:
  • Interview with Neil Baker (Highways Chief) reveals lack of control over utility company roadworks.
  • Emergency closures are often misused causing public frustration.
  • Proposed solutions include legislative changes for better traffic flow prioritization.

3. Westminster Watch: Swanscombe Landslide Aftermath

• Discussion Lead: Nikki White
• Details:
  • Ongoing disruption since Galley Hill Road collapse two years ago.
  • Dartford MP Jim Dixon seeks government intervention for funding repairs.
  • Public meeting scheduled to address community concerns.

Special Guest Segment:

Cllr Alister Brady Interview

• Discusses his journey into politics from an air steward to leading within local governance in Canterbury.
• Highlights challenges and aspirations related to local government reorganisation versus devolution priorities in Kent.