Politics

Tributes have been paid to a former councillor who represented her community for more than three decades.

Crime commissioner fears government’s police training scheme a ‘creep towards central control’

Kent’s crime commissioner says the county’s police force already has in place ways of training officers in dealing with persistent issues.

‘Councils on the brink’ as union warns of £81m Kent budget shortfall

A major union has warned local councils are on the brink of “financial disaster” with no option but to make drastic cuts.

Residents’ survey entrants could win football tickets

A council is offering a free seven-day workout and a chance to win other prizes to anyone who enters its 2024 Residents’ Survey.

Families protest against disability benefits changes

Protestors have gathered at County Hall to demonstrate against the changes to disability benefits.

Plans revealed for new facilities at asylum seeker processing centre

The Home Office has unveiled plans to create a “more fit-for-purpose” reception centre for asylum seekers at a former airport.

‘If Londoners get discounts, so should we’

A Kent MP is calling for discounts on charges for the county’s drivers at the new Silvertown Tunnel.

Disability benefits changes a “tax” on the vulnerable - says MP

An MP has criticised changes to the way disability payments are calculated amid concerns over an increased in costs to the most vulnerable in society.

Ten stall-holders pull out of market over Sunday parking fees

The introduction of Sunday parking charges is ‘threatening the future of farmers’ markets’.

Finish date for major city centre project pushed back to 2026

A scheme that includes reopening a castle and creating a public square will now be complete by the start of 2026, a council expects.

Winter fuel payment: How did Kent MPs vote?

The government is set to go ahead with cutting winter fuel payments for pensioners across the country.

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Mixed response to government’s planned ‘buses overhaul’

Plans put forward to give councils powers to set bus routes, fares and schedules more easily have divided leaders locally.

Kent MP remains in race to be next Tory leader

Four candidates including MP Tom Tugendhat have made it through the latest round of voting to become the next leader of the Conservatives.

‘Incredible’ support for at-risk centre

Around 300 people protested on a seafront walk to show their support for a children's centre which could be axed as part of funding cuts.

‘The winter fuel debate could save the country £1.2bn but will it leave MPs out in the cold?’

People are watching which way MPs vote on winter fuel payments, believes our columnist, with debates rumbling as autumn’s first cold snap arrives.

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A228 widening work may start next spring