THE KENT POLITICS PODCAST

Episode 53 - Devolution blow, MP comeback and special guest Cllr Ian Chittenden

Welcome to the Kent Politics Podcast, your definitive guide to local and national political discussions. This episode delves into the complexities of local government finance, devolution developments in Kent and Medway, upcoming council elections, and rural crime issues.

• Medway Council Budget Woes: Robert Boddy discusses Medway's financial struggles with a predicted £8 million overspend.
• Potential Bankruptcy Risks: The looming threat of a Section 114 order if budget issues aren't resolved.

• Devolution Efforts Stalled: Kent and Medway missed out on the first round of devolution deals.
• Folkestone Hive Restructure Debate: Dan Essen covers the controversy over restructuring Folkestone Hive District Council amidst new devolution plans.

• Former MP Adam Holloway’s Ambitions: Simon Finley reveals Holloway's potential return to politics after losing his seat narrowly last election.

• Helen Whateley's Advocacy Against Rural Crime: Nikki White reports on efforts by Faversham MP Helen Whateley addressing increasing rural crimes like fly-tipping and livestock attacks.

Liberal Democrat Councillor Ian Chittenden joins this week:

• Discusses challenges facing local governments due to funding cuts from central government.
• Shares scepticism about an elected mayor model for devolved powers in Kent.

Thanks for listening to the Kent Politics Podcast - don't forget to check out stories throughout the week on the politics pages of KentOnline, and you can watch the Kent Politics Show with Rob Bailey on KMTV every Friday at 5pm or on demand at www.kmtv.co.uk

Don't forget to look out for more episodes of the Kent Politics Podcast, along with other shows at www.im-listening.co.uk or wherever you listen you your podcasts.