UKNestled between the chalk-white cliffs of the Thames Estuary and the rolling hills of the North Downs, the county of Kent — and its neighbouring borough of Medway — offers more than postcard landscapes. It’s a region where modern life meets centuries of history, where dockyard heritage blends with creative energy. And in recent years, one television channel has become the voice of this vibrant community: KMTV, Kent’s own dedicated local TV station.
Kent & Medway — More Than London’s Backyard
Just 30 minutes from London by train, Kent and Medway possess a character all their own. From the bustling streets of Maidstone and Chatham to Tunbridge Wells’ Georgian charm and Sheerness’ seaside calm, the area tells thousands of local stories every day. Yet national networks rarely pause to listen. That’s where KMTV steps in — capturing what makes Kent & Medway truly special and delivering it straight to viewers’ screens.
The Birth of KMTV
Launched in 2017, KMTV was born from a partnership between KM Media Group (publisher of Kent Messenger) and the University of Kent’s Centre for Journalism. The station’s mission was clear: to create a high-quality local news and entertainment service made in Kent, for Kent.
Broadcasting on Freeview Channel 7 and Virgin Media 159, and available for streaming worldwide, KMTV now reaches households across Maidstone, Medway, Sittingbourne, Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells.
What’s On Air
At 5:30 p.m. each weekday, Kent Tonight goes live — the channel’s flagship hour-long news programme covering everything from council debates and business headlines to school stories and coastal weather.
Sports fans tune in to Team Talk, while Chris & Co explores business and innovation. Music lovers enjoy Based in Kent, a showcase for regional artists and venues, and Paul on Politics brings spirited discussion on issues shaping the county’s future.
The schedule blends professionalism with a friendly, local touch — a mix of journalism and genuine community conversation.
A Studio with a Student Spirit
Housed in the University of Kent’s Medway campus, KMTV’s newsroom doubles as a teaching environment. Journalism students work alongside industry professionals, gaining hands-on experience in reporting, camera operation, and live production.
This partnership has become a national model for community-based broadcasting — a channel where “learning meets local media.” It also brings fresh ideas and youthful energy to Kent’s airwaves.
Why Local TV Matters
While major UK broadcasters focus on Westminster and the world, KMTV stays close to home. It covers regeneration in Chatham, small-business stories in Maidstone, festivals in Whitstable, and charity events in Tonbridge.
Viewers see their own towns, schools and neighbours represented — a rare experience in today’s media landscape. For many, it’s more than television; it’s a shared mirror of local identity.
Watching & Joining In
KMTV’s official broadcast and streaming information can be found on Squid TV’s KMTV page, where viewers can learn more about the channel and its online availability.
Through Squid TV, audiences can also discover other local, national and international stations, all curated in one convenient place.
KMTV also invites community contributions — from short films and event coverage to new story ideas — encouraging residents not only to watch Kent’s story but to take part in telling it.
A Bright Future for Kent Television
As digital platforms transform how people watch, KMTV stands out for holding onto what matters most — local voices, local places, local spirit. It proves that in a world of global media, a county’s own channel can still make news personal, relevant and joyful.
From the harbours of Medway to the fields of the Weald, KMTV is turning the spotlight homeward — and Kent is ready for its close-up.
