I attended the Spring Court Residents Association meeting and was pleased that an action plan has been put in place by Southern Housing Association.
Nationally, the Office for National Statistics published figures to show that the government’s plan for the economy is working. In the month of June, economic growth was up 0.5%, with the biggest growth sectors being production and construction. Unemployment has also been reported as falling, as well as inflation figures for July having fallen to 6.4%. Although there is still more work to be done, it is a relief to see that some of the hard choices the government have made are paying off.
Good news also that the defective 'nutrient neutrality' regulations, which originated in the EU, have been reformed. This is good news for many redevelopments of historic or brownfield sites, including in Gosport, which were blocked by these regulations, despite achieving little environmental benefit. Coupled with new environmental measures, such as expansion of the Nutrient Mitigation Scheme and £280m funding to offset nutrient discharge, which is impacting sites like Portsmouth Harbour, these reforms will unleash our economy, rejuvinate our communities and increase housing stock. Significant progress in our ability to level up whilst also protecting the environment.
More funding was also announced to help our social care system. A national investment of £600m has been made to support recruitment and retention in the sector. I’m really pleased to see that Hampshire will be getting its fair share with over £64m announced for the County.
Action has been taken on tackling migration, part of the plan to stop the boats. Penalties have been increased for landlords and employers who house or provide work to anyone who enters the country illegally. Employers will be subject to a £45,000 fine per employee who is an illegal migrant, while landlords will face up to £10,000 per tenant. Illegal migrants are often employed and housed in exploitative conditions, and this will discourage landlords and employers from engaging in this practice.
Coupled with the Illegal Migration Act, which became law last month, this will help empower the government to take action to reduce the number of small boat crossings, and swiftly deport those who cross the channel illegally.
The government is consulting on plans to include health information in packets of cigarettes. You can contribute your thoughts about the proposed measures in the consultation here.
A consultation has also been launched by Southern Railway on plans to change their services between Southampton & Portsmouth to London Victoria. This will impact both of our local stations in Fareham and Portsmouth Harbour. Find out more about their plans and contribute to the consultation here.
If you’re looking for some fun activities to do in September, Yellow Edge Art Gallery are holding some art workshops. Funded by Arts Council England, this will give you the chance to learn and develop artistic skills in a variety of mediums, like painting, mosaics and woodblock printing! Find out more and book your place here.
As ever, my team and I are here for any thoughts, questions or concerns you may have. Please do get in touch.
