The Kent Politics Podcast

EP74: Reform's debut, Kent's not working and making plans for Medway, special guest Damian Green

Episode Summary

Join Simon and the team as they unravel Medway Council's controversial local plan, dissecting its impact on housing and infrastructure. Discover why 21% of Kent's working-age population remains economically inactive, with insights from the latest council reports and listen to a conversation with this week's special guest Damian Green.

Episode Notes

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 74 - Reform's debut, Kent's not working and making plans for Medway, special guest Damian Green 

This episode features a critical analysis of local governance issues, including the unveiling of Medway Council’s local plan and Reform UK’s debut in Kent County Council. We also welcome former Ashford MP Damian Green to reflect on his life after Westminster.

Key Segments:

Medway's Controversial Local Plan:

• Medway Council’s 15-year housing and infrastructure strategy.
• Debate surrounding Chatham Docks’ residential development plans.
• Public consultation details following robust council debates.

Reform UK's First Steps at KCC:

• Insights into Reform UK taking control amidst economic inactivity concerns in Kent.
• Analysis of employment challenges with 21% economically inactive residents.

Westminster Watch:

•  Sir Keir Starmers' welfare reform bill chaos.
• Labour MPs' rebellion against cuts; implications for future government policies.

Damian Green Interview:

• Reflections on losing his seat after nearly three decades as an MP.
• His views on social care funding reforms and predictions about Nigel Farage’s leadership ambitions.

Noteworthy Quotes:

• "The day Nigel Farage says he’ll pass up short-term popularity is when I’ll believe he’s preparing for government." – Damian Green