For too long, our community has been overlooked. Local people know it. I know it. And that’s why I am fighting to make sure communities in our city get the investment they deserve.
The government’s new Pride in Place Programme, announced in recent days, is an opportunity we cannot afford to miss. This programme will provide long-term funding to areas across the country that have been left behind, helping to improve facilities, back local jobs, and rebuild pride in our communities.
Since becoming your MP, I have been pressing Ministers and the Treasury at every opportunity to ensure our city is included in investment plans. I’ve raised it in Parliament, made the case directly to decision-makers, and worked with local partners to show why our community deserves support. I will not stop until Portsmouth gets its fair share.
Why does this matter so much? Because I know from my time as a school governor at Arundel Court, a ward councillor for the area and today, as your MP, that too many families here feel that opportunities pass them by. Because our young people deserve youth services and safe spaces that give them hope and confidence. Because we need investment that supports small businesses, improves local facilities, and helps make our streets cleaner and safer.
But I know that I cannot do this alone. I want the case I am making to government to reflect the voices and priorities of the people who live here. That’s why I have launched a neighbourhood survey for Landport and the city centre, asking local residents what matters most to them.
Is it tackling crime and anti-social behaviour? Creating new play areas and green spaces? Backing local jobs and training? Supporting community centres and youth services? Whatever your priorities, I want to hear them – so that when I make the case for Landport and the city centre, it’s built on the voices of local people.
This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity. If we are successful, it could mean millions of pounds invested right here in the heart of Portsmouth, secured for the long term. That’s why I am working around the clock to make sure we don’t miss out.
I know times are tough and people are impatient for change. I hear that every week on the doorstep. But this programme is real, it is coming, and I am determined that Portsmouth will be part of it.
Please take a few minutes to complete my survey at here. Your views will make a difference, and together we can make the strongest possible case for our community.
I have always said that I would fight for Portsmouth South – where I was born and raised. This initiative is part of that promise – and I will not rest until we deliver the investment that our community has been waiting for.
