The Kent Politics Podcast

EP76: More homes in Medway, KCC committees up and running, report into mortuary monster David Fuller, and special guest Cllr Oliver Bradshaw

Episode Summary

This week, Simon and the team unpack a turbulent time in local politics, from major housing plans in Medway to how Reform UK swept into power at Kent County Council. Our special guest, 23-year-old councillor Oliver Bradshaw, shares why he left the Conservatives for Reform and what it means for the council’s future. Plus: updates on solar farms near Canterbury, a moving debate over Blue Badge access for cancer patients, and explosive revelations about an Afghan data breach costing taxpayers billions.

Episode Notes

THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST 

Episode 76 - More homes in Medway, KCC committees up and running, report into mortuary monster David Fuller, and special guest Cllr Oliver Bradshaw 

This week on the Kent Politics Podcast:

1. Local Planning & Development

Solar Farm near Canterbury:
Dan revisits plans for an 80-football-pitch-sized solar farm at Tyler Hill—approved quickly due to its sub-50MW capacity. Expected to power up to 15,000 homes by 2026.

Medway Housing Expansion:
Rob covers new proposals for 750 homes off Pump Lane, Rainham. Strict conditions include schools and healthcare facilities—a response to previous rejected bids amid local concerns over traffic gridlock and loss of green spaces.

2. Council Business Post-Election

Simon reports that Kent County Council is back in action after May elections:

• Scrutiny Committee now chaired by opposition (Lib Dem/Labour), signalling openness under Reform UK leadership.
• Sale of council artworks initiated under Conservatives expected to raise £45k.

3. David Fuller Inquiry Update

Nikki explains phase two findings:

• Serious failings found nationwide in mortuary oversight after Fuller's crimes went undetected for decades at Maidstone & Tunbridge Wells NHS Trusts.
• Chair Sir Jonathan Michael calls current arrangements “partial” and “ineffective”, urging statutory regulation—government response pending.

4. Blue Badge Campaign Goes National

Elli details how Kent Online’s campaign reached Parliament:

• Cross-party support among all Kent MPs as well as others nationally pushes government towards fairer blue badge access for those with life-limiting illnesses such as cancer.

5. Exclusive Interview: Cllr Oliver Bradshaw (Reform UK)

At just 23, Oliver shares his journey from Young Conservative activist disillusioned with Tory direction, through standing unsuccessfully last year, to winning big with Reform this May:

• On why he left Tories: "They have essentially betrayed every single one of their voters."
• On savings challenge ahead: Focuses on cutting unnecessary spending like electric vehicle conversions; seeks efficiency rather than slashing services or raiding reserves; admits challenge but remains optimistic about avoiding bankruptcy fears voiced by ex-councillors.
• On unitary authority reforms: Sceptical about rushed reorganisation without proper financial planning—warns residents may suffer if mishandled.

6. Afghan Data Breach Fallout

Dan unpacks revelations around thousands admitted via a secret resettlement scheme after MOD data leak put Afghans who worked with British forces at risk:

• At least £6bn cost projected; super-injunction lifted this week exposes scale—and controversy over public accountability persists.

Nigel Farage’s comments spark discussion about crime rates among arrivals—with contributors noting both uncomfortable facts about Afghanistan's social context and dangers of simplistic narratives.

Who Wins Politically?

The team agrees only Reform likely to question Britain’s obligations openly—their stance may find traction given public mood around costs vs service cuts elsewhere.

Get Involved!

Have questions or want us to cover a topic? Email or send voice notes:
 kentpoliticspodcast@kmgroup.co.uk

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Kent Politics Podcast, your essential guide to local and national political developments from a Kent perspective.