Portsmouth South MP Stephen Morgan has praised Labour’s pledge to reform council funding, ensuring coastal communities receive fair financial support after years of Conservative neglect.
The Government plans to completely restructure how local authorities receive funding, replacing an outdated system that disadvantaged coastal towns like Portsmouth. The reforms aim to distribute resources based on actual need rather than historical allocations.
Mr Morgan highlighted how seaside communities were frequently overlooked under the previous Conservative administration, missing out on vital funding for essential services including parks and libraries.
Labour has already begun addressing these inequalities through this year’s Recovery Grant, providing £600 million to Britain’s most disadvantaged areas based on fairness and genuine need.
The new funding formula will specifically acknowledge the unique challenges facing coastal towns and seafront communities. For the first time, Government calculations will include seasonal visitor pressures and the additional costs of providing public services in coastal economies.
The Labour Government has also announced changes to council tax collection rules to support struggling households. Currently, residents who fall behind on payments can be forced to settle their entire annual bill immediately, often facing bailiff action without payment plan options.
Under the new system, councils must offer payment arrangements and work collaboratively with residents experiencing financial difficulties.
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Stephen Morgan, Portsmouth South MP, commented: “Coastal areas like Portsmouth have been overlooked for far too long by a funding system that ignored our specific requirements. I’m delighted Labour is addressing this by recognising our unique pressures and ensuring fair funding for our services.
“It’s also sensible to provide payment plans during difficult times. Labour’s changes will finally create a fairer system for local residents.”
Securing appropriate investment for Portsmouth remains one of Mr Morgan’s primary objectives, having consistently campaigned for the city to receive funding that matches local requirements.
