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Maidstone News
Council decisions, crime, planning rows and community life in Maidstone - covered as it happens.
All Articles
104 total
Man charged following series of car thefts across West Kent
A man has been charged following an investigation into three vehicle thefts reported in Leybourne, Otford and Sevenoaks. He appeared before Sevenoaks Magistrates' Court and has been remanded in custody ahead of his next hearing at Maidstone Crown Court.
Kent hosepipe ban now in force as heatwave pushes water demand to near record levels
A hosepipe ban is now in force for many households across Kent after weeks of hot, dry weather pushed water demand to near record levels. Here's what the restrictions mean, which areas are affected and where to check the official map.
Kent Police step up summer patrols to help keep women safe, with Maidstone operation highlighting proactive approach
Kent Police are running proactive summer patrols across the county to help protect women and girls during nights out. A recent Maidstone operation showed how officers are intervening early when suspicious behaviour is spotted, while reminding communities that safety is everyone’s responsibility.
Up to £10,000 available to help transform Maidstone town centre shopfronts
Independent businesses in Maidstone can now apply for grants of up to £10,000 to improve their shopfronts. The funding aims to help revitalise the town centre, attract more visitors and support local high street businesses, with applications open until 24 August 2026.
Revealed: The West Kent parishes paying the highest and lowest council tax in 2026/27
Council tax bills across West Kent vary by more than £330 a year depending on where you live. We analysed the official 2026/27 figures to reveal the area's highest and lowest-paying parishes, and how the region's biggest towns compare.
Serious assaults in Maidstone and quiet Headcorn spark police investigations
Two separate serious assault investigations have been launched in Maidstone and the usually quiet village of Headcorn, with multiple arrests made and detectives appealing for witnesses as enquiries continue.
Lightning strike sparks house fire near Maidstone after night of thunderstorms
Firefighters were called to Ulcombe Hill near Maidstone after lightning struck the roof of a house during overnight thunderstorms. Six fire engines attended and no injuries were reported.
Father’s Day in West Kent: sunshine, cold drinks and dads pretending they don’t want a fuss
Father’s Day in West Kent arrives with sunshine, heat and plenty of simple ways to celebrate. From park walks and riverside strolls to pub gardens, Sunday lunches, picnics and family days out in Maidstone, Tonbridge, Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells, today is a good excuse to spoil Dad a little - even if he insists he “doesn’t want anything”.
Yalding Post Office services return after village campaign
Post Office services are returning to Yalding through a temporary outreach service at the Parish Council Office/Old Post Office. The move follows the closure of the village branch after 126 years and concerns from residents who rely on local access.