Brian Black

Devolution and Local Government Re-organisation Cabinet Committee - Monday, 28th July, 2025 10.30 am

The Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation Cabinet Committee met to discuss and consider the KCC Options Appraisal and Criteria Assessment of Current Local Government Reorganisation Options, and to note the commitment from Kent County Council (KCC) to fully take part in the process to develop a shared options appraisal with partners. The committee also noted the commitment to bringing future papers to the committee and cabinet as the work progresses to inform the development of KCC's policy position and next steps. During the meeting, members raised concerns about public consultation, the financial implications of the proposals, and the potential impact on different areas within Kent.

County Council - Thursday, 10th July, 2025 10.00 am

Kent County Council met on 10 July 2025, and among other business, members discussed local government reorganisation, violence against women and girls, and the blue badge system. They voted to approve a cut in member allowances, and reallocate the money to member grants.

Planning Applications Committee - Wednesday, 9th July, 2025 10.00 am

The Planning Applications Committee convened to discuss several planning applications, including amendments to waste management operations in Ashford and Folkestone, and an expansion project at Northfleet Technology College. Councillor Jeremy Eustace was elected chair, and Councillor Paul Thomas was elected vice chair for the committee. The committee approved the expansion of Northfleet Technology College, and also approved, with amendments, an application to vary conditions relating to operations at McAleer's Yard in Folkestone.

Annual Meeting, County Council - Thursday, 22nd May, 2025 10.00 am

At the annual meeting of Kent County Council, Councillor Richard Palmer was elected as the new Chairman, and Councillor Peter Evans was elected as Vice-Chairman. Councillor Lyndon Kemkaran was elected as the Leader of the Council, and Councillor Antony Hook was appointed Leader of the Opposition.