Mark Hood On Kent Politics Show: Tackling Bus Cuts, Anti-Social Behaviour, And Local Democracy In Tonbridge And Malling

Oliver Leader de Saxe, joined by Independent Swale Borough Councillor KCC councillor Mike Whiting and Green KCC and TMBC councillor Mark Wood.

Councillor Mark Hood, representing Tonbridge and Malling on Kent County Council (KCC), recently appeared on the Kent Politics Show to discuss pressing local issues, including bus cuts, anti-social behaviour, and the future of town and parish councils. Here’s a summary of the key points raised during the interview.

You can watch the full interview below

{Although we have also summarised it as well for you)

Bus Cuts & Rural Isolation

Bus services are a lifeline for many residents, particularly in rural areas like Tonbridge and Malling. Mark highlighted the challenges faced by communities where bus services are being reduced or cut entirely. He pointed to the subsidised 211 bus service in Tonbridge, which is funded by KCC, as an example of a vital service that could be at risk if funding is reduced.

Mark also emphasised the need for better coordination between bus and rail services, particularly for commuters who rely on buses to get to railway stations. He argued that without reliable evening services, many residents are forced to drive, which undermines efforts to reduce congestion and emissions.

A Call for a Transport for Kent Solution

Mark advocated for a Transport for Kent (TfK) solution, similar to Transport for London (TfL), which would allow local authorities to take greater control over bus services. He cited the success of Highland Council in Scotland, which runs its own buses and has significantly reduced costs. Mark argued that Kent’s reliance on private bus operators, many of which are owned by foreign companies, is unsustainable and called for a more integrated, publicly accountable system.

Anti-Social Behaviour & Community Safety

The discussion also touched on anti-social behaviour, which remains a concern for many residents despite a reported 8% drop in incidents across Kent. Mark acknowledged the efforts of Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council in tackling the issue, including the use of shared prosperity funding to hire security teams in hotspots like Snodland.

However, he raised concerns about the sustainability of these measures, particularly as funding for youth services and community wardens continues to be cut. Mark stressed the importance of early interventions, such as youth clubs and family hubs, in preventing anti-social behaviour and supporting young people.

The Role of Town & Parish Councils

Mark is a strong advocate for town and parish councils, which he believes play a crucial role in representing local communities. He highlighted the ongoing efforts to establish a town council in Tonbridge, which currently lacks one, and praised the work of parish councils in running community bus services in rural areas.

With the potential for devolution and local government reorganisation in Kent, Mark argued that town and parish councils will become even more important in filling the democratic deficit left by larger unitary authorities. He called for greater powers and resources to be devolved to these councils, enabling them to better serve their communities.

Challenges of Housing & Planning

The conversation also touched on the challenges of housing and planning in Tonbridge and Malling. Mark, who chairs one of the borough’s planning committees, expressed frustration at the government’s decision to increase housing targets by 23%, despite the borough’s significant areas of Green Belt and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

He criticised the centralisation of planning decisions, citing the recent example of a development in Swale being called in by the government, overriding local decision-making. Mark argued that this undermines local democracy and called for greater autonomy for councils to make decisions that reflect the needs of their communities.

Looking Ahead

Mark’s appearance on the Kent Politics Show highlighted the Green Party’s commitment to tackling local issues head-on. From improving public transport and reducing anti-social behaviour to empowering town and parish councils, Mark’s vision for Tonbridge and Malling is one of sustainability, inclusivity, and community-led solutions.

As the Green Party continues to push for change, Mark and his colleagues are working hard, not just during elections, to ensure that Tonbridge and Malling remain a great place to live, work, and thrive.

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