Daniel Esson

Plans have been submitted for 115 car-free apartments on a vacant, derelict brownfield site off Fountain Street in Sittingbourne, near the railway station. Developer 7-Oaks Limited proposes providing one covered bicycle space per apartment instead of car parking, citing the town-centre location. The scheme comprises 25 studios, 57 one-bedroom flats and 33 two-bedroom flats, with three gated entrances. Swale Borough Council is expected to decide the application by 22 October 2026; an earlier proposal for 130 apartments was revised after discussions with planning officers.

A review by the Integrated Care Board and East Kent Hospitals Trust is examining potential changes to the overnight model at the Kent & Canterbury Hospital urgent treatment centre, raising concerns from MP Rosie Duffield, who warns that losing local urgent care provision would pose risks to Canterbury and surrounding areas. The centre has been downgraded multiple times since 2005, with major emergencies already diverted to other towns. No final decision or timeline has been set.

More than 300 Kent retail businesses, including corner shops and takeaways, hold skilled worker visa sponsor licences, raising concerns among some politicians that the immigration system is being used for low‑skilled roles. MP Katie Lam called for closing loopholes, while immigration experts said many employers never use their licences and some roles may legitimately qualify. Data shows a decline in skilled worker visa approval rates and highlights broader employer interest across sectors. The Home Office said employers must meet strict requirements and emphasised measures to reduce reliance on overseas recruitment.