The politician in charge of roads and transport at KCC has lost his job.

Cabinet member Cllr Matthew Balfour has been moved out of the role and it is understood that he will be replaced by Cllr Mike Whiting, who was re-elected in last year’s election.

Sources suggest Mr Balfour may have paid the price for the way in which the controversial plans to cut back on socially necessary bus routes emerged.

The disclosure that there could be cuts to dozens of routes subsidised by the council to help save £4m over two years provoked a furious backlash with criticisms coming from schools, community groups and even from Kent MPs.

They wrote a stinging letter criticising the proposed changes to some 70 bus services saying KCC should re-think the plans. The letter from ten MPs said: “These services are vital for elderly people, allowing them to get into towns to go shopping, visit relatives or attend doctor appointments. schoolchildren, disabled people and low earners also face being cut off.”

Mr Balfour is councillor for Malling Rural East.He said he was given no specific reason why he was out of the cabinet. He said he had enjoyed his three years in the role and would have continued if given the chance.

"It’s been a real privilege and a pleasure to work with the KCC officers responsible for our road network, planning and the environment and I wish them well for the future," he said.

KCC leader Paul Carter had said that the release of the details about the proposals for bus cuts was premature and announced he was taking personal charge of the issue - something which led to speculation about Mr Balfour's future.

In a statement confirming the news, KCC leader Paul Carter said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank Matthew for his hard work and dedication as Cabinet Member for the past three years.”

Mike Whiting has been appointed as his successor as cabinet Member for Planning, Highways, Transport and Waste.

Cllr Mike Whiting said “I am delighted to have been offered the opportunity to return to Cabinet and am looking forward to the challenge ahead. “

It is understood that the planned public consultation on the criteria to be used when deciding where cutbacks could be made - due to start next Monday - is on hold.

More soon.