West Kent Local NewsYour trusted source for local news and community updates
Council decisions, crime, planning rows and community life in Sevenoaks - covered as it happens.

South East Water has agreed to a £30.5 million redress package after Ofwat concluded three investigations into repeated supply failures across Kent and Sussex. The package will fund network improvements, community support and increased oversight through an independent monitor.

A new £50 million water treatment works has opened in Aylesford, adding up to 20 million litres of drinking water a day to Kent's network and forming part of South East Water's long-term investment plans.

Waste and recycling collections are starting earlier during the current heatwave, with some crews beginning their rounds from 5am. Residents are being urged to put their bins out the night before to avoid missing their collection.

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.

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 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.

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.

Edenbridge Leisure Centre is set for around £2.2 million of investment up to 2027, with planned improvements to changing rooms, the sports hall roof, heating, ventilation, boilers, the main entrance and other key facilities.

Sevenoaks has moved a step closer to a major town centre regeneration project, with Wates named as the preferred contractor for plans including a new leisure centre, cultural hub, market hall, green spaces and new homes near Buckhurst Lane and Suffolk Way.