City MP Stephen Morgan and Palmerston Road and local area businesses agreed to continue working together to revitalise the area and tackle current problems such as crime and anti-social behaviour.
In his latest in a string of actions to improve Portsmouth high streets and grow the local economy, Mr Morgan brought together local traders and small businesses from Palmerston Road and nearby streets to discuss current challenges and future opportunities for the area.
The roundtable follows successful action from the City MP at Guildhall Walk where he similarly hosted regular forums to get things done to raise concerns with decision-makers and bring about improvements in the area.
Mr Morgan opened the event by saying he sees huge potential for Palmerston Road and the surrounding area but is concerned about its current condition with a number of issues reported to him and the authorities in recent times.
The roundtable concluded with local retailers and Mr Morgan agreeing to continue working closely together to increase the profile of the area, stamp out issues such as shoplifting and to meet again in the spring to make sure progress has been made.
The City MP also promised to continue lobbying government for more investment in Portsmouth to support local businesses.
Mr Morgan has made securing investment for Portsmouth one of his priorities, but under the Conservatives, the constituency has repeatedly been overlooked for levelling up funding.
Commenting on the Palmerston Road roundtable, Portsmouth MP Stephen Morgan said:
“Palmerston Road and the surrounding area is fizzling full of potential, but I am concerned about its current condition of neglect and with a number of issues reported to me and the authorities in recent times.
“I am determined as MP for Portsmouth South to do whatever I can to support local businesses to thrive and spruce up our high streets.
“That’s why I have been working with local businesses across the city to discuss current challenges and agree actions on what needs to be done next to revitalise our high streets for the benefit of businesses, local people and our local economy.”
Mr Morgan has vowed to continue making sure businesses in Portsmouth feel heard and are given the support they need to succeed.
Labour has committed to scrapping regressive business rates to give small businesses the opportunity to thrive, paid for by making sure large corporations pay their way.
