Mark Hood Advocates for Agriculture, Economic Development, and Youth Training at KCC Committee Meeting

At the Tonbridge and Malling Green Party, we believe in Working Hard, Not Just During Elections. This commitment was on full display last week when Cllr Mark Hood spoke at the Kent County Council (KCC) Growth and Economic Development Committee. Mark’s contributions highlighted the Green Party’s dedication to sustainable agriculture, economic development, and vocational training for young people—issues that are critical to the future of Kent.

Agriculture & Economic Development

Mark began by addressing the importance of supporting Kent’s farmers and food industry through initiatives like Produced in Kent, which is funded by KCC. He emphasised the dual importance of food security and energy security, advocating for solar farms that support grazing animals and avoid the most productive agricultural land.

“Solar farms are not forever,” Mark noted. “They are temporary, albeit they can be in place for 30 years. We need to ensure that our agricultural land remains productive while also meeting our energy needs.”

Mark’s comments reflect the Green Party’s broader vision for sustainable development, balancing the needs of the environment with those of the economy.

Watch Mark’s First Speech

In his first speech, Mark highlighted the unique challenges faced by different parts of Kent, particularly in West Kent. He expressed concern about the impact of large-scale developments, such as warehousing and retail parks, on town centres and housing availability.

“Tunbridge Wells has already seen its town centre hollowed out due to the displacement of retail onto industrial areas,” Mark said. “We need to get the balance right between residential and commercial development, especially with the 23% housing uplift imposed by the Labour government.”

Mark also pointed out that many large developments, such as those by Amazon, are highly automated and do not provide the high-paid employment opportunities that Kent needs.

A Passion for Kent’s Agricultural Heritage

In his second speech, Mark spoke passionately about Kent’s agricultural heritage, drawing on his own experience working in an apple orchard. He stressed the importance of achievingfood security and energy security, calling it “truly patriotic.”

“The Kentish fruit industry holds a special place in my heart,” Mark said. “It’s a disgrace that the UK consumes only 38% of the apples and 8% of the pears grown here. I would never consider eating an apple that wasn’t produced in Kent or the UK.”

Mark also addressed the need to reform inheritance tax rules to support family farms, rather than allowing high-profile individuals to exploit loopholes for personal gain.

Youth Training & Vocational Education

Mark’s commitment to the community extends beyond agriculture and economic development. He has been a vocal advocate for better vocational training and further education in West Kent, where opportunities have historically been limited.

“I have been pressing for far better vocational training and further education in West Kent,” Mark said. “We are now seeing Skills Bootcamps, which provide eight weeks of intensive training to help people enter industries like construction. But we need to ensure there is a geographical spread so that no one is left behind.”

Working Hard for Kent

Mark’s contributions at the KCC committee meeting are a testament to the Green Party’s commitment to Working Hard, Not Just During Elections. Whether it’s advocating for sustainable agriculture, balancing development with community needs, or fighting for better training opportunities for young people, Mark and the Green Party are dedicated to creating a fairer, greener future for Kent.

If you’d like to support our efforts or get involved, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Together, we can build a community that works for everyone.

More from us

If you found this article helpful, be sure to follow us on our social media profiles linked below! We regularly share updates and insights. Also, if you’re ready and eager to make a difference, check out our Volunteers Page to see how you can get involved with our community!

• Facebook
• Instagram
• TikTok
• Twitter
• Get Involved!
• Join the Green Party